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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow
The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.
A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.
Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.
See also: Where to Stay in Moscow
17. Tsaritsyno Palace
Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.
Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.
The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.
Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.
The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.
With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.
15. Kremlin Armoury
One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.
Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.
Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.
14. GUM Department Store
Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.
With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.
The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.
13. Moscow Metro
It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.
Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.
Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.
12. Arbat Street
An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.
A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.
Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.
11. Novodevichy Convent
Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.
Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.
Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.
10. Pushkin Museum
Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.
Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.
Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.
9. Christ The Savior Cathedral
This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.
The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.
With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.
8. Lenin Mausoleum
Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.
Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.
After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.
7. Tretyakov Gallery
Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.
Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.
An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.
6. Kolomenskoye
Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.
Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.
Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.
5. Gorky Park
Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.
Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.
Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.
4. Bolshoi Theatre
The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.
While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.
Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.
3. Moscow Kremlin
This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.
Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).
Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.
The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.
2. Red Square
Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.
Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.
It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.
1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral
Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.
Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.
Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.
Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.
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35 most beautiful places to travel to in America (what to see and how to see it)
It’s said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Maybe for you, beauty is the bright lights of a cityscape at night or a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Maybe it’s a meadow of wildflowers, a roaring waterfall, or a historic neighborhood in a famous city. For many, it’s a natural wonder like the Grand Canyon , Yellowstone's Old Faithful geyser, or Hawaii's Mauna Kea volcano . Beauty can be found anywhere, in anything, so we’ve gathered this list of some of America's most beautiful places to travel—the landmarks, attractions, and breathtaking views to see before you die.
But we aren’t stopping there. It’s one thing to tell you about America’s most beautiful places, and another to help you plan the perfect itinerary to see them. In our list below, you’ll gain 35 adventures to add to your bucket list and specific ways to experience them, from guided hiking tours, helicopter rides, and sailing expeditions, to recommended hotels and alternative lodging options in each spot.
The best part? You can book almost everything right on TripAdvisor. We check up to 200 booking sites to bring you the lowest price on hotels , plus we have thousands of bookable tours, excursions, attraction tickets, and more, ready to book online .
Without further ado, here are some of the most beautiful places, landmarks, and attractions to visit in the USA.
Island of Kauai, Hawaii: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Poipu’s Beaches
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters - Kauai
There’s a reason big-budget films like Tropic Thunder and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides feature this lush location as a backdrop. This tropical paradise is home to some of the most gorgeous scenery on the planet, from the spectacular Mt. Waialeale crater , which gets more rainfall than anywhere else on earth, to the stunning Mana Waiapuna falls featured in Jurassic Park, the towering spires of the Nā Pali Coast, and the resorts of Princeville . A great way to see it all is via this helicopter tour taking you over the island of Kauai, as well as the Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Poipu’s gorgeous beaches . Pro tip: Make time to check out the snorkeling , rafting, and kayaking experiences around the Nā Pali Coast and its famous sea caves, too.
Where to stay
- Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
- This two-bedroom condo, steps from the beach
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Kenai Fjords Tours
It’s not hard to see why this six-hour excursion in Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular wildlife and glacier cruises. Glide past alpine and tidewater glaciers, spot abundant marine wildlife, and visit seabird rookeries at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Drifting past the jagged icy cliffs along the Kenai Peninsula, you might catch breath-taking glimpses of humpback, minke, and orca whales, among other creatures that flock to the plankton-rich waters. No matter your adventure style, there are plenty of tours available for exploring Kenai Fjords National Park .
- Seward Windsong Lodge
- Harbor 360 Hotel
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
There are so many ways to take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon. Bus trip , helicopter tour from nearby Las Vegas, or travel the way visitors did in the early 20th century: by train ! This iconic American destination is celebrated for its Colorado River views and awe-inspiring red rock formations stretching as far as the eye can see. Also worth exploring are Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend , both of which are about two hours away from the popular South Rim of the Grand Canyon .
- El Tovar Hotel
- Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim
Pfeiffer Beach: Big Sur, California
Pfeiffer Beach
As the Beach Boys crooned, Big Sur is a place of crimson sunsets and golden dawns. Pfeiffer Beach is an especially picturesque stretch where the waves roar as they hit the white sand of the beach. One TripAdvisor reviewer was particularly taken with the sight of the rocks perforated with holes, allowing water to splash through making for some spectacular camera shots. McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge get tons of deserved Big Sur hype, but Pfeiffer Beach is more of a hidden gem—check out its purple sand and amazing rock formations.
- Post Ranch Inn
- Big Sur Lodge
Colorado’s Blue Lakes
Blue Lakes Trail
The Blue Lakes Hiking Trail near Telluride , situated above the tree line at about 12,400 feet, offers a gorgeous hike past alpine lakes and the peaks of Yankee Boy Basin. Hikers often tackle it as a day-long excursion, taking in the sight of colorful wildflowers and everything from marmots to mountain goats or sheep. If you’re staying in Denver and want to try something similar, you can take this private day tour of Mount Evans , which includes spectacular views from the top of the famous ‘14er’, as well sightings of wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk, and bison.
- Hotel Columbia
- The Hotel Telluride
The Brooklyn Bridge, New York City
Brooklyn Bridge
New York City is truly an incredible metropolis, worthy of many superlatives. While Central Park or the Statue of Liberty could certainly be considered beautiful, our pick here is the Brooklyn Bridge thanks to its stunning architecture (one reviewer claims it’s an " iconic engineering marvel ") and unique skyline views. Opened in 1883 and spanning nearly 6,000 feet, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the world’s most recognizable suspension bridges and a classic New York sight. Travelers rave about waking across the bridge at sunrise or sunset, or alternatively taking the view in at nighttime on a boat cruise —which also includes views of One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, and the Chrysler Building.
- The Roxy Hotel Tirbeca
- Hotel 50 Bowery NYC
Fall Foliage in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Anyone planning a getaway who loves history, New England, mountains, and dazzling fall colors, should put Bretton Woods in autumn on their travel wish list. It’s actually a point within the town of Carroll, New Hampshire. In fall, this place is simply spectacular. Hike up West Mountain for amazing views or ride The Cog , a cog railway carrying tourists up Mount Washington.
- Omni Mount Washington Resort
- The Lyme Inn
Forsyth Park: Savannah, Georgia
Forsyth Park
The thirty-acre site of Forsyth Park , dating from the 1840s, is one of the most iconic spots in the city of Savannah. The park’s fountain is probably its most recognizable landmark, and the benches and Spanish moss-covered oaks that surround it have helped make it a romantic focal point for photography. Outside the park, TripAdvisor reviewers particularly love Savannah’s historic churches and cathedrals, this museum dedicated to the history of Prohibition, and sites like Bonaventure Cemetery , nestled on the bluff of the Wilmington River and famous for its old tree-lined roadways and historic architecture.
- The Kehoe House
- The Eliza Thompson House
Maui’s Honokohau Falls and the Sea Cliffs of Molokai from the air
Maui Plane Rides
Taking a flight across Hawaii’s most dramatic landscapes will really make you sit up and appreciate the world around you. On this helicopter tour over Molokai and Maui you’ll see a panorama of cliffs, jungle, ocean, and volcanoes, perhaps interrupted by a majestic whale or two. Take in those massive sea cliffs and that serene North Shore bathed in sunlight—you simply won’t want to leave.
- Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort
- This one-bedroom condo, voted #1 rental in Maui
Driftwood Beach: Jekyll Island, Georgia
Driftwood Beach
Amateur shutterbugs flock to Driftwood Beach , a distinctive spot on the north end of Georgia’s Jekyll Island that looks, quite simply, like a graveyard for trees. Trust us, it’s a lot more beautiful than it sounds. It often shows up on lists rounding up the most romantic beaches in the country, due to its landscape of sun-scarred driftwood that makes you feel like you’re in another world. Catch it early in the morning or at sunset for a view that will take your breath away.
- Saint Simons Inn by the Lighthouse
- The Cloister at Sea Island
Views from Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Lookout Mountain
The views at Lookout Mountain are nothing less than breathtaking, looking over the city of Chattanooga, as well as parts of neighboring states. There’s a powerful sense of history here, as several TripAdvisor reviewers note, as you stand on ground where Civil War soldiers fought and died. Also seek out Ruby Falls (which includes a cave and waterfall underneath the mountain), the rock formations and gardens in Rock City , and Point Park , memorializing the 1863 Civil War Battle Above the Clouds. Visit in the fall for the added bonus of colorful foliage!
- The Dwell Hotel
- The Chattanoogan
Views from the Stratosphere Observation Tower in Las Vegas
Stratosphere Tower
When people talk about the Stratosphere in Vegas, they could be referring to the hotel or the casino, but there’s a better chance that they really mean the roughly 1,150-foot-tall freestanding observation tower . This distinctive Sin City landmark includes two observation decks, the revolving Top of the World restaurant, and several bookable rides and attractions, such as this open-air leap from the tower via the SkyJump experience . This unlimited ride pass also lets you experience the thrills of rides like the Big Shot.
- The Venetian
Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis: Missouri
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
This St. Louis cathedral , the mother church of the St. Louis archdiocese, is home to one of the largest collections of mosaics in the Western hemisphere. This beautiful structure turned 100 years old in 2014 and is perhaps best known for its interior mosaics, which took almost 80 years to complete, using more than 41 million pieces of glass tesserae. The interiors are stunning, for sure, but its incredible exterior architecture also gives it a nod on our list of beautiful sights in America.
- Moonrise Hotel
- Magnolia Hotel St. Louis
Views from the Willis Tower Skydeck in Chicago
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
If it’s a dizzying height with an epic Chicago view you want, head straight to the Ledge at Skydeck Chicago , housed in the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. A quintessentially Chicagoan and perfectly Instagrammable moment can be captured 103 floors up the Willis Tower, where you step out onto the glass balconies of the ledge, extending more than four feet outside the building. Enjoy those 360-degree views then turn your gaze down to your feet to see the slightly stomach-churning sight of everything 1,353 feet below you. Skydeck admission is listed at $22, and you can also enjoy dinner on the 103rd floor, bookable here .
- The Langham
- The Peninsula Chicago
The Lighthouses of Coastal Maine
Casco Bay Custom Charters
It doesn’t get much more storybook perfect than this: a two-hour excursion into Casco Bay aboard a vintage lobster boat, offering sublime views of the Maine coastline dotted with lighthouses. Each charter includes a captain and deckhand to guide you, regale you with local color, and tend to your needs, but it’s the lighthouses that are the stars of this show. You’ll see four in total, including the Ram Island Light, the Spring Point Ledge Light, Bug Light, and the iconic Portland Head Light, which was commissioned in 1791 by none other than George Washington himself.
- Portland Harbor Hotel
- The Press Hotel
Mauna Key Summit, Hawaii’s Big Island—from the air
Mauna Kea Summit
Once-in-a-lifetime moments don’t get much more epic than watching the sun rise from the top of a volcano. In this case, it’s the Mauna Kea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island, which is what this sunrise excursion is built around . Watching the purple, blue, orange, and red rays of the sun peek out over the horizon is the culmination of this six-hour trip to the volcano’s peak. For a perfect bookend to this experience, take this small-group sunset and stargazing tour of Mauna Kea , during which you’ll use powerful telescopes to observe constellations from the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station.
- Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Boston’s Historic Neighborhoods
Boston Citywalks
William F. Buckley once quipped he’d be happy to entrust the entirety of the United States government to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone book. It was a rumination on the one-of-a-kind nature of the people here in Beantown, a truly iconic American city. Here, history and modernity coexist beautifully, and you feel it everywhere you go. In neighborhoods from Southie to Beacon Hill , with its cobblestone streets; in the foodie paradise of the North End ; from the tree-lined streets of Back Bay to the pubs, taverns, and institutions such as Boston and Harvard universities; in beautiful public spaces like Boston Common and historic landmarks like Faneuil Hall and the Old State House.
- Hotel Commonwealth
- Boston Harbor Hotel
Saint Augustine, Florida
Old City Tours of St. Augustine
Saint Augustine is a city that stands alone. Sure, it’s got all the trappings the average vacationer would want: charming hotels, intimate restaurants, pristine beaches. But it’s the history that gives this city its unique feel—it’s the oldest European settlement in the US. If you’re so inclined, you could pull a Ponce de Leon and taste the waters in the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park (let us know if it makes you feel any younger). Beyond that, there are tons of ways to explore the city, from ghost and trolley tours to sunset cruises and craft beer tastings .
- The Saint Augustine Beach House
- Marker 8 Hotel & Marina
Chapel of the Holy Cross: Sedona, Arizona
Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a distinctive, almost otherworldly-looking edifice built into the red rock formations of Sedona. It’s been featured in architecture magazines, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and it’s just one of many memorable spots in this desert oasis, where you’ll also find resorts, spas, and canyons. The beauty of the desert scenery is only surpassed by the grandeur of the night sky. Once the sun dips, you’ll see it in all its glory, free of the illumination of city lights. If you want to explore the area, there are tons of experiences to choose from, like this small-group tour of Sedona and a tour of the chapel itself .
- Casa Sedona Inn
- The Inn Above Oak Creek
Cathedral of St. Helena, Montana
Cathedral of St. Helena
An awe-inspiring collection of artwork can be found in the German-made stained glass windows of the Cathedral of St. Helena , a Gothic-inspired structure with distinctive twin spires and a pipe organ. This must-see landmark gathers high praise from TripAdvisor reviewers for the beauty of the church and the sense of serenity within. Elsewhere in the city, there’s a museum of art , Reader’s Alley (a restored miners’ village complete with restaurant and shops), and the Gates of the Mountains wilderness area.
- The Sanders – Helena’s Bed and Breakfast
- The Bunkhouse Helena
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Midway Geyser Basin
The Midway Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, while not home to the famous Old Faithful Geyser, is still arguably Yellowstone’s best area to explore, particularly for photographers. One reviewer states : “This is a must-see location within the park. The area is simply beautiful and very unique. The colors are truly magnificent.” Due to those stunning colors, the Midway Geyser Basin is one of the most photographed walks in Yellowstone. It includes the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Excelsior Geyser, plus the Turquoise Pool and the Opal Pool. This tour is a good way to experience all these sites and more—led by an expert guide, you’ll be able to see several impressive geysers, along with the natural beauty of canyons, cascades and more.
- Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins
- Dunraven Lodge
Niagara Falls, New York & Ontario
Niagara Falls
One guaranteed way to feel the awesome power of nature is to visit the inimitable Niagara Falls . There are three magnificent falls here, two American and one Canadian. On this tour of the American side of the falls you’ll get aerial views from the observation deck at Skylon Tower, get up close to Horseshoe Falls on the Maid of the Mist boat ride, and also reach the closest accessible point of the falls at Cave of the Winds.
- The Giacomo
- The Red Coach Inn Historic Bed and Breakfast Hotel
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina Mountains
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive offering world-famous, breath-taking views. The road links the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you can explore the scenery here a number of different ways. There’s this photo tour and hike led by a local guide along the parkway, or you could try an alternative guided hike that also passes by three lovely waterfalls.
- Princess Anne Hotel
- The Inn at Glen Alpine
Wild Horses Grazing On the Beaches of Corolla, North Carolina
Corolla Outback Adventures
Now here’s a sight that’s unique to North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Ancestors of the wild Spanish Mustangs who wander free here were brought over in the 1500s on Spanish vessels. The horses you see today make up the last remaining wild herd. This two-hour tour of the Outer Banks transports you through the sand dunes in open-air four-wheel drive vehicles to see the wild horses in all their splendor. You’ll also visit a maritime forest and a historic Coast Guard station.
- The Inn on Pamlico Sound
- Sanderling Resort
Multnomah Falls: Bridal Veil, Oregon
Multnomah Falls
There’s an old Native American story that says Multnomah Falls was created for a young princess who wanted a secret place to bathe. This is certainly a place of beauty, with a roaring cascade of over 600 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the US. If you’re feeling particularly gutsy, walk up the trail to Benson Bridge, which spans the falls and gives you an unobstructed view up to the top—and a stomach-churning view down the roughly 70-foot drop. Tours like this show you around Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge as part of a half-day excursion from Portland.
- Allison Inn & Spa
- Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel
The Mansions of Newport, Rhode Island
Gansett Cruises
New England oozes an irresistible storybook charm, and there’s no better place to experience it than in Newport, Rhode Island , with its yacht-lined harbor and Gilded Age mansions. You can take a guided trolley tour or simply admire these castles of wealth from the water on a harbor sightseeing cruise . Most tours include a stop at The Breakers, a mansion that housed the Vanderbilts and is among the most impressive of the city’s historic abodes. Alternatively, walk along the famous Cliff Walk and see the mansions from a unique, picturesque perspective.
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk
- Grace Vanderbilt
Charleston’s Historic District: South Carolina
Old South Carriage Company
Charleston’s history dates back more than three centuries, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore the fascinating past of this handsome port city. Wander among its antebellum mansions, old churches, and graceful homes, and try a tour of the historic district by horse-drawn carriage . It’s a delightfully old-school experience—you’ll be pulled along by the same kind of horse that worked American farms in the 1800s, while learning about the founding of the city.
- The French Quarter Inn
- Harbourview Inn
Utah’s National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce and More
Zion National Park
The Beehive State is home to so many beautiful parks and other stunning natural wonders that it can be a little tricky to narrow down your itinerary. One way to check off several points on your list in one go is this epic seven-day tour of some of the top protected wilderness areas in the country . Along the way, you’ll see Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park, as part of a thrilling week of hiking and exploring the rock pillars, rivers, and cliffs this area has to offer.
- Grand America Hotel
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Ruby Beach: Olympic National Park, Washington
Ruby Beach is one of the most visited beaches along the coastline of Olympic National Park in Washington, and is well-known for its reddish sand and little islands of rock, known as ‘sea stacks’. The rugged shoreline, peppered with rocks and driftwood, makes for a memorable afternoon of beachcombing accompanied by gorgeous views.
- Lake Crescent Lodge
- Sol Duc Riverside Cottages
Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
Snoqualmie Falls
One of the most visited attractions in Washington state is Snoqualmie Falls , attracting more than 1.5 million people a year. The site includes a two-acre park, an observation deck, the Salish Lodge, and, of course, the beautiful 270-foot waterfall. A few tours in the area include visits to the falls, such as this falls and wineries tour and this excursion that also includes Seattle city center .
- Salish Lodge & Spa
- Inn at the Market
The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge
One of the most iconic, easily recognizable landmarks in the US is the Golden Gate Bridge , stretching 4,200 feet and towering as high as a 65-story building. It’s an imposing monument and a marvel of engineering skill, as well as a gateway into San Francisco, but you don’t have to just admire it from afar. You could try this cruise departing from Fisherman’s Wharf and gliding close to the bridge, or a guided bike tour from San Fran to Sausalito, taking you right across the bridge itself.
- Lodge at the Presidio
- Omni San Francisco
Kiva Beach: South Lake Tahoe, California
Kiva Beach is a little bit of a hidden gem, and it’s totally worth the trip. Here you’ll get great views of the mountains around it, including Mount Tallac, and it’s also one of the few truly pet-friendly beaches in the area, making it a great place to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand with a furry four-legged companion.
- The Landing Resort & Spa
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Views From the Griffith Observatory: Los Angeles, California
Griffith Observatory
This public observatory is set on Mount Hollywood within Griffith Park, housing a planetarium, exhibits, public telescopes, and a bookstore. Walk around the back to get sweeping, unobstructed views of the Los Angeles skyline—especially breathtaking at night, when you can see the bright lights of the city sparkling in the distance. There’s a bust of actor James Dean on one side that’s positioned so you can capture it and the famous Hollywood sign in the same shot. The observatory is packaged in multiple tours that take in a variety of Los Angeles landmarks .
- The Beverly Hills Hotel
- Malibu Beach Inn
Yosemite National Park, California
Tucked into the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is known for the natural beauty of its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. Half Dome and El Capitan are two of the granite cliffs made famous by photographer Ansel Adams. Especially worth a visit are the 317-foot Vernal Fall , beautiful Mirror Lake , and Yosemite Falls , the fifth tallest waterfall in the world. The shops and restaurants of Yosemite Village are also popular.
- Yosemite Valley Lodge
- Yosemite West High Sierra Bed and Breakfast
Bluebonnet Blooms: Spicewood, Texas (Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area)
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area has plenty of active fun in store for visitors, including a 6.5-mile mountain bike trail. But if you’re after a beautiful display of nature at its best, come in the spring to see the ground blanketed in gorgeous bluebonnet wildflowers. There’s nothing quite like it to make you appreciate the dazzling colors of nature.
- Chanticleer Log Cabin
- Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin
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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual
- September 2, 2023
What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!
Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.
Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow
I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.
TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow
- Moscow Red Square
- St. Basil’s Cathedral
- Cathedral of Christ the Savior
- Bolshoi Theatre
Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow
- Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
- Tretyakov Gallery
- Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
- Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
- Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye
Visit Moscow of the Soviet era
- Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
- VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
- GULAG Museum
- Metro stations
- The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city
Less touristy places in Moscow
- Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
- The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
- Zaryadye Park
- Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
- Business center, Moscow City
Main districts of Moscow to visit
- Patriarch Ponds
- Tchistye Prudy
- Kuznetsky most
- Arbat Street
However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.
What to do and see in Moscow in one day?
List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:
- Go to Red Square
- Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
- See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
- Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
- Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
- And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view
Things to do in Moscow in 2 days
If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.
- First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
- Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill
As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .
Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow
Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.
Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside
Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!
- Visit estimate time : 1h30
- Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
- Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
- Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
- Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow
Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square
Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!
- Open 24 hours a day
- Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?
See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district
The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets
The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.
Visit the Moscow Kremlin
Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.
- Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
- See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin
Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior
This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.
- Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
- Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
- Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)
Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.
The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow
If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.
Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.
Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.
- Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.
Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University
The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.
- How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.
Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!
What to do in Moscow in 3 days?
If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!
VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era
VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!
GULAG History Museum
The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.
Discover the Patriarche Pounds district
It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.
What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days
If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.
Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow
The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!
Discovering Tchistye Proudy district
It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.
Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!
The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉
In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?
What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?
Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.
Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery
Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!
- Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
- Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
- Entry tickets. 500 RUB.
Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.
- Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
- Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
- Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.
Walking on Arbat Street
All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.
Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)
Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.
Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.
Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow
Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!
- Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
- Prices. 2200 RUB per person
- Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.
What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?
There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .
If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.
There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!
Moscow travel tips:
- Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
- Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
- Tourist voucher for Russian visa
- Christmas and New Year in Moscow
- What is the best time to visit Moscow?
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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia
Updated On 14th October, 2021
While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia!
Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.
Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe.
There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow!
It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip.
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Where is Moscow?
If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city.
How do you get to Moscow?
Getting a visa for moscow:.
To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.
Getting to Moscow:
Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities.
Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on Skyscanner here.
Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.
16 best places to visit in Moscow...
1. st basil’s cathedral.
The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best!
St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular.
Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.
The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.
Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.
2. The Kremlin
This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today.
This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much.
See more tips for travelling on a budget here.
There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.
As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.
This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.
4. State Historical Museum
The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.
Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia.
5. Bolshoi Theatre
Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.
I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.
6. Sparrow Hills
If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.
Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.
7. Seven Sisters
Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.
If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city!
8. Nikolskaya Street
The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!
What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!
There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.
9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar
Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.
The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow!
It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists.
Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.
10. Izmailovsky Park
Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.
There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.
The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.
11. Gorky Park
The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”.
There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.
One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.
12. Arbat Street
One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.
It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.
There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.
13. Metro station art
The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.
Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following: Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).
There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).
VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.
15. Lenin's Mausoleum
Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body.
16. Novodevichy Convent
Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.
Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?
What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?
Love as always and happy adventuring…
I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.
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Home » Europe » Moscow
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)
Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!
Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!
If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!
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Best Time To Visit Moscow
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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!
The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!
If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.
Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!
The best time to visit Moscow is during spring (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!
With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!
Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!
The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!
It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!
Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.
Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!
Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow
Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!
Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel
The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!
Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre
If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel
Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!
Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!
The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!
If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.
Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!
No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!
Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral | GUM Department Store
Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!
Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square
- Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
- Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees.
- Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!
The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!
During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!
The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic!
It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!
In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!
Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin
- Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
- Cost: USD $15.00
- Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!
The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!
It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.
The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.
The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!
The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).
The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.
The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .
Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!
Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum
- Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
- Cost: Free!
- Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!
Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.
It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!
Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!
Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.
The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!
Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.
Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral
- Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
- Cost: USD $8.00
- Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!
Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!
The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!
This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!
The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.
Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.
The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.
Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!
Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store
- Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
- Cost: Free to enter
- Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!
The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.
A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!
The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!
For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!
The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!
Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.
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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater
On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!
Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent
- Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
- Cost: USD $5.00
- Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!
The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for!
The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.
There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!
Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!
The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture!
Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.
Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure
- Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
- Cost: Free!
- Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!
Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.
You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months. A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!
Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!
If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!
The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.
With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!
Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery
- Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
- Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!
The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov. The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!
It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!
The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!
All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner!
Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!
Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center
- Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres.
- Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.
The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.
The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!
The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics.
The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.
You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!
Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater
- Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
- Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 – USD $228.00 based on seat location.
- Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!
The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!
The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.
The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!
Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!
If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!
The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!
Godzillas Hostel
Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.
- Towels Included
Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum
Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!
Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics
- Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
- This museum is fun for both adults and children!
- Admission is USD $4.00
The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!
The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!
If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!
The Alexander Garden
- A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
- Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
- The park is open every day and has no entrance fee
The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!
The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.
Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!
The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.
It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!
Ostankino Television Tower
- Television and radio tower in Moscow
- Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
- Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!
For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!
It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!
The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!
Izmaylovo District
- The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
- Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
- Most popular during the summer and on weekends
Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.
The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!
Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!
You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!
Museum of Soviet Arcade Games
- Closed on Mondays
- Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
- The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop
For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.
The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy!
Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!
The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.
Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!
If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.
The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.
However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .
Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow
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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!
Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)
On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!
You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!
Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!
Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal
On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.
Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!
The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!
Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside
On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.
Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.
The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!
Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge
On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.
Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.
If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!
Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow
On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!
Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided! Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.
Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!
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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.
How many days you need in Moscow?
We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.
What’s the best month to visit Moscow?
The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.
What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?
I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!
What are some fun things to do in Moscow?
The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!
We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!
Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Alya and Campbell
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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the U.S.
From magical deserts to gorgeous beaches, these are the most beautiful places in each state.
Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.
Mother Nature wasn't modest with America, where her handiwork ranges from magical desert mesas to wooded river valleys to whisper-thin barrier islands. You might even say she was particularly heavy-handed when doling out American scenery.
The natural beauty found across the 50 states is so vast and staggering, it's practically impossible to make sense of — though you can't say we didn't try. Here, our totally subjective, state-by-state list of the most beautiful places in the U.S.
Alabama: Magnolia Springs
Mail is delivered by boat — the last year-round river mail delivery in the country — in this small coastal village along the Magnolia River. Dating to the late 1700s, the town is named for its natural assets: gushing springs and a shady canopy of magnolia trees.
Alaska: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
Few states seize the popular imagination like Alaska . And at 13 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias (the largest national park in the U.S. ) encompasses the overwhelming beauty of the far north. Hiking here leads you through a boreal forest, along glittering glaciers (the Root Glacier trail goes right on the icy mass; crampons recommended), and up to ridges for wild mountain views — this park contains some of the highest peaks in the country.
Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park
Don Eim/Travel + Leisure
What can we say? The most beautiful place in Arizona is the Grand Canyon . Though outrageous natural beauty is found in every corner of the state, from enchanting Emerald Cove to sacred Canyon de Chelly, nothing quite compares to the majesty of Arizona's flagship feature.
Within this natural wonder of the world, Havasu Falls (or Supai Falls) contrasts the red rock with its seemingly impossibly turquoise water, while the circular arc of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend is not to be missed.
Arkansas: Ozark National Forest
Dominating northwestern Arkansas , Ozark National Forest is an all-season haven rich in things to do. Its ferny oak-hickory woods are dotted with caverns (the tour-friendly Blanchard Springs Caverns has an underground river), grottoes, swimming beaches, campsites, and horseback and ATV trails. Whitaker Point and Sam's Throne are favorites with hikers and rock climbers.
California: Yosemite National Park
Vince Fergus/Travel + Leisure
The nation's third-oldest park has major status with the National Park System, UNESCO, and traveler wish lists around the world. The alpine wonderland draws millions of annual visitors to see its high-country Sierra Nevada beauty, marked by granite domes, towering sequoias, and sheer-drop waterfalls.
Hike or drive up to Glacier Point to behold Yosemite Valley from 7,000 feet; the million-dollar panorama includes Yosemite Falls and famous Half Dome, staggeringly close and shooting 4,800 feet at a beyond-vertical pitch above the valley floor.
Colorado: Garden of the Gods
Anyone with even a passing interest in geology (or photography, or just knockout natural splendor in general) might find themselves at a loss for words at the sight of Garden of the Gods. Two tips: Aim to visit the lofty sandstone formations on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds, and take the Siamese Twins loop for a view of the snowy Pikes Peak (inspiration for "America the Beautiful") set in a frame of red rocks.
Connecticut: Connecticut Shore
If you close your eyes and try to imagine the ideal seaside town in New England , your vision is probably not too far off from Old Lyme, Mystic, Old Saybrook, and other coastal Connecticut villages. Strung along the Long Island Sound, the small towns combine quiet coastal beauty and gobs of old-timey charm (think white-painted inns and cozy taverns).
Delaware: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
You don't have to be an avid birder to treasure this nature preserve. It's one of the largest surviving tidal salt marshes in this part of the U.S., the boggy domain of bald eagles, snowy egrets, great blue herons, and other birds and animals.
Florida: Everglades National Park
Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure
A UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve, this watery 1.5 million-acre wilderness is home to extraordinary flora and fauna, including American crocodiles, manatees, otters, and wading birds. To see it, join an airboat tour, paddle the mangroves in a canoe or kayak, bike the popular Shark Valley Tram Road, or set out on the flat Anhinga Trail through a seagrass marsh.
Georgia: Cumberland Island
It's hard to imagine a place better suited to peace seekers, bird-watchers, and even history fans than car-free Cumberland Island. Development on the Georgia barrier island is limited to the stately Greyfield Inn , and the rest of the nearly 10,000 acres is congressionally protected nature. When you're not strolling the driftwood-strewn beaches, you can kayak the quiet waterways and stop by the Gilded Age-era Dungeness ruins.
Hawaii: Nāpali Coast
The Earth's wrinkles are on spectacular display along Kauai 's Nāpali Coast, where sheer, fluted sea cliffs (pali) plummet into the Pacific. The only land access is the strenuous 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which follows the jagged, jade-colored coast's gulches and valleys. The first two miles are a popular day hike; beyond that, a permit is required. This is considered one of the world's most dangerous treks, though helicopter tours are another way to see the exquisite terrain.
Idaho: Sawtooth National Forest
Four mountain ranges and four major rivers collide in Sawtooth National Forest , a 2.1 million-acre great-outdoors paradise whose landscape has remained virtually unchanged since Lewis and Clark explored it in 1805. The forest is home to dozens of 10,000-plus-foot peaks, hundreds of sparkling alpine lakes, and more than 3,000 miles of gushing streams, as well as grassy meadows, sagebrush flats, and pine and aspen woods. Manners of exploration are as vast as the land itself and include backpacking, rafting, skiing, and mountain climbing.
Illinois: Cache River State Natural Area
You might think you're deep in a Louisiana bayou in this bald cypress and tupelo swamp, the northernmost of its kind in the U.S. Explore the nearly 12,000 acres of wetlands by kayak, canoe, or foot via the park's trails and boardwalks. Some of the cypresses you'll see are more than 1,000 years old, with massive flared bases that exceed 40 feet around.
Indiana: Hemlock Cliffs
For the uninitiated, Indiana is full of surprises. It has the covered bridges and country lanes of Vermont, the sand dunes and lakeshore of Michigan, and fall foliage that could be taken for the Smokies. This box canyon within Hoosier National Forest is a terrific ravine- and waterfall-filled place that you probably wouldn't associate with the heartland.
Iowa: Maquoketa Caves State Park
Avid explorers will be in their element at Maquoketa Caves State Park, where bluffs, miles of trails, and more than a dozen limestone caves await investigation. Some of the caves, such as the 800-foot Dancehall, can be walked through upright, while others require serious spelunking. Either way, bring a headlamp.
Kansas: Castle Rock Badlands
This quirky site is off the beaten path — literally. Located on private ranch land accessed by 4WD-demanding dirt roads, Castle Rock is a relic of an inland sea that once covered this part of the continent. The fragile, fossil-rich limestone pinnacles provide a near-shocking change of scenery from their Kansas prairie home.
Kentucky: Mammoth Cave
The longest known cave system on the planet is found below the wild hills of south-central Kentucky. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a vast (as in still-being-mapped vast) limestone network of cool caverns, cathedral-like rotundas, and claustrophobic crawl spaces. Lest you think a Mammoth Cave adventure is all below ground, the lushly forested park above it offers hiking and horseback riding, plus canoeing and kayaking on its two rivers.
Louisiana: Wild Azalea Trail
Bar-crawling in Louisiana may come to mind before forest hiking. At 31 miles, the Wild Azalea Trail is the longest in the state — expect peaceful scenery of pine trees, clear creeks, gentle hills, and maybe even wild horses. Time your trek to March or April to see the namesake pale pink flowers blanketing the countryside.
Maine: Acadia National Park
With its rocky shores, crashing surf, and coastal mountain hiking trails, Acadia National Park has a special place on Maine 's most beautiful places list. Get there via Coastal Highway U.S. 1 and you'll incorporate one of our other contenders. Speaking of cars, drive to the Cadillac Mountain summit before dawn for the first glimpse of sunrise in the U.S. (most of the year, that is).
Maryland: Weverton Cliffs
Part of the famed Appalachian Trail, Weverton Cliffs is a switchback two-mile hike in South Mountain State Park. The reward for your effort? Views from 500 feet above the Potomac that include neighboring Virginia and West Virginia.
Massachusetts: Cape Cod National Seashore
This delicate chain of federally protected land is rich in natural appeal, including marshes, woodlands, wild cranberry bogs, windswept dunes, walking paths, and miles of sandy beaches. This is one of the last remaining blocks of Atlantic coastal pine barrens, a now-rare forest ecosystem teeming with animals and birdlife.
Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Out-of-staters might not equate Michigan with sandy beaches and striking sand dunes, but both are found along the state's largely coastal boundaries — most notably, on the 35 miles of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore . This carved-by-glaciers shoreline is home to a beech-maple forest, scenic hiking and driving, and the immense namesake dunes rising high above Lake Michigan.
Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Drive
The North Shore is a road-tripper's daydream . Many Minnesotans and Midwesterners drive this Lake Superior-adjacent route time and time again, hitting the four-tiered Gooseberry Falls, the precariously perched Split Rock Lighthouse, and the tallest waterfall in the state, High Falls (shared by the U.S. and Canada). And don't miss World's Best Donuts, a very important stop for cinnamon-sugar donuts and deep-fried "skizzles."
Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway
Beauty and blacktop meet on the Natchez Trace, a 444-mile drive that crosses Mississippi like a pageant sash, following a Native American foot trail that goes back millennia. Instead of billboards and interstate exit signs, you'll cruise past cypress swamps and meadows edged by black-eyed Susans and log fences, with lots of pull-over opportunities for picnics and nature walks.
Missouri: Ozark National Scenic Riverways
The spring-fed Current and Jacks Fork rivers anchor this national park. Swim, canoe, and fish in its crystal-clear waters and explore the area's caves (more than 300 have been discovered so far, some only accessible by boat), trails, natural springs, and historic mills.
Montana: Going-to-the-Sun Road
Take the ride of your life on the white-knuckle Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 52-mile route that climbs above the clouds in Glacier National Park . Looking out the window takes a bit of bravery, but your prize is jaw-dropping views of alpine valleys, flowing rivers, and fields of wildflowers far below the surrounding peaks and ridgelines. The road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (elevation: 6,646 feet), where you can get out and hike Hidden Lake and Highline trails.
Nebraska: Toadstool Geologic Park and Oglala National Grassland
Nebraska's native prairie land is thrown into splendid relief at Toadstool, a tract of unusual wind- and water-carved rock formations and vast fossil beds. Some rock layers contain tracks of animals long vanished from this part of the world, like rhinos and camels.
Nevada: Red Rock Canyon
Just 30 minutes from the LED skyline of Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon , named for its giant cliffs and craggy jumbles of yellow and red sandstone. The hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and scenic driving on offer here are a pretty amazing contrast to the gaming, buffet visits, and pool parties that define a typical Sin City getaway.
New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway
Kancamagus Scenic Byway ("the Kanc") may just be New England's prettiest drive . Connecting the small towns of Lincoln and Conway, it meanders by the rocky gorges, waterfalls, swimming holes, campgrounds, and trailheads of White Mountain National Forest. Fall is a lovely time to make the journey, when foliage colors and moose sightings are at their peak. Just be sure to pack snacks and fuel up — there are no gas stations or businesses for some 30 miles.
New Jersey: Cape May
Cape May's main claim to fame may be its late Victorian-era houses and hotels — some 600 structures in all — but this seaside resort town has non-architectural virtues as well. There are wineries, gardens, biodiverse wetlands, and, of course, end-of-a-peninsula beaches. Head to west-facing Sunset Beach at twilight for an amazing natural show over Delaware Bay.
New Mexico: Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
Millions of years of erosion have created this sci-fi, fantasy-like display of pinnacles, spires, and other weirdly wonderful bodies of weathered rock. This high-desert wilderness (read: no marked trails) is essentially the geologic record of a prehistoric coastal swamp where dinosaurs once roamed.
New York: Finger Lakes
Glacial force shaped this beautiful upstate landscape , leaving behind 11 long, skinny, finger-like lakes in its wake. The region is heaven in the summer, when visitors can choose between waterfall hiking (Watkins Glen and She-Qua-Ga Falls are popular stops), endless lake activities, and more wineries , vineyards, and breweries than you can shake a stick at.
North Carolina: Outer Banks
This remote stretch of North Carolina coastline has drawn pirates, colonists, and early aviators. Now, it's the realm of beach lovers looking for peace, quiet, white sand, and salt air. Add in the barrier islands' wild dunes (including the East Coast's largest) and multiuse paths — it's actually possible to bike the entire 100-plus-mile length of the Outer Banks — and you've got an amazing region for quaint coastal exploration.
North Dakota: Maah Daah Hey Trail
Hike, bike, or hop on a horse and ride through the remote scenery for which North Dakota is known. This 144-mile system is made up of nine trails with various lengths, difficulty ratings, and backdrops, from grassy prairies to dizzying badlands buttes. It's a timeless American landscape, and the trail is aptly named for the Mandan phrase: "An area that will be around for a long time."
Ohio: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
You can pretend you're in Victorian London in the Crystal Palace-evoking glass greenhouse that is the cornerstone of this botanical landmark. And its biomes and gardens might transport you to the desert, rain forest, and even the Himalayas.
Oklahoma: Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
Native grasslands, the ecosystem perhaps most powerfully entwined with our national identity, are on the decline. This protected preserve is the largest sweep of tallgrass prairie in the country, and the world. Here, you can see the American plains as they looked centuries ago, with herds of bison (about 2,500 of the shaggy-haired beasts roam freely) and swaths of purple prairie clover.
Oregon: Crater Lake
Crater Lake is evidence of the tectonic activity that's eternally shaping the planet. A long-ago eruption formed a giant caldera, which filled with rain and snow over time. The gradual result is a deep lake (the deepest in the country, in fact) with intense blue waters and fantastic clarity. Crater Lake's mountain setting atop the Cascade Range makes it even more hypnotic.
Pennsylvania: Appalachian National Scenic Trail at the Delaware Water Gap
The famous Delaware Water Gap area spans 70,000 acres (Pennsylvania and New Jersey), yet its namesake point is where the river carves through the rugged Kittatinny Mountain. See the Gap from Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT, to in-the-know hikers), which offers a clear view from Mount Minsi.
Rhode Island: Block Island
Fieldstone walls hemming in emerald-green fields, Victorian buildings, and dramatic cliffs lashed by the Atlantic — you could be forgiven for thinking you've been dropped on a distant British shore. Mosey around the island by bike or moped, visit the two begging-to-be-photographed lighthouses, and pop into a classic New England eatery — we like Block Island Oyster Bar and Grill for lobster bisque and daily-harvested local oysters.
South Carolina: Hilton Head Island Bike Trails
Wide, natural beaches may be a big draw, but Hilton Head locals and vacationers alike praise the island's bike trail system for easy, breezy cruising (and for bypassing road traffic, which can be intense). The 85-mile, well-maintained network is easy to navigate and takes you to some of Hilton Head Island's favorite spots, like Sea Pines Forest Preserve. A bike ride is especially lovely in the late afternoon, as the sun begins to set over the marshes.
South Dakota: Badlands National Park
Steep buttes, crystal-lined caves, granite spires, prairies, and ponderosa pine forests — speculating the most beautiful South Dakota place is hopeless, but the fossil-packed landscape of Badlands National Park must come close. Here, meadows meet whimsically eroded canyons and vibrant, layered hills. Drive Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) and the perimeter route around the South Unit. Bonus points if you time your visit to the south-facing Pinnacles Overlook for sunset.
Tennessee: Cherokee National Forest
Lovers of the outdoors have their work cut out for them in Tennessee, especially its eastern edge. The 650,000-acre Cherokee National Forest has something for adventurers of every sort, whether you're looking to tackle the Appalachian Trail or other backcountry treks, whitewater raft down Pigeon River, pitch a tent next to Watauga Lake, or witness the dazzling rhododendron summer bloom in the Roan Highlands.
Texas: Guadalupe Mountains
These mountains in windswept West Texas are the exposed tips of the 400-mile Capitan Reef, one of the best-preserved ancient reef systems in the world. Explore more than 80 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks through the Chihuahuan Desert to hardcore hikes to the "Top of Texas" (a.k.a. Guadalupe Peak, the state's highest point).
Utah: Arches National Park
We'll confess to paralysis by indecision here, such is the vast choice on offer (see: Grand Staircase-Escalante, Monument Valley, Bryce and Big Cottonwood canyons). Yet surreal Arches National Park gets the nod. Its natural sandstone arches, tall cliffs, and honeycomb rocks are like a 65-million-year chronicle of our planet. The scenery will leave you breathless — as will a stamina-requiring Fiery Furnace hike (ranger guidance or individual permit required).
Vermont: Mad River Valley
In the 1950s, the snowy ski resorts of Mad River Valley pulled the likes of the Kennedys and Hollywood VIPs. Its creviced mountains and charming small towns still make it a prime destination for all manner of outdoor and simple-pleasure pursuits, like hiking, maple- and cheese-tasting, shopping for crafts, and seeking local swimming holes, to name a few. Even just cruising Route 100 is a delight.
Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway's "America's Favorite Drive" tagline isn't just a stroke of marketing genius. The 469-mile drive (shared by Virginia and North Carolina) takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the southeastern U.S. One example? Natural Bridge, a 215-foot-tall "overpass" spanning 90 feet to connect solid limestone cliffs. Don't forget good hiking shoes and your phone charger because there are hundreds of trails and photo opps.
Washington: Hurricane Ridge
This mountainous area within Olympic National Park packs the best features of Washington state into one enchantingly alpine package: snowy peaks, glassy lakes, grazing black-tailed deer in steep meadows, and thick evergreen forests.
West Virginia: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
A highlight of West Virginia is the seemingly endless reserve of spectacular river ravines and mountain views. New River Gorge gets a special mention for its iconic bridge. With a 3,030-foot steel span that's nearly 90 stories high, it will make your heart skip a beat.
Wisconsin: Apostle Islands
There's so much to explore on the 20-plus islands that make up this archipelago. Hike through the wilderness, hop in a kayak, scuba dive to shipwrecks and underwater sea caves (Lake Superior really does look and feel more like an ocean), and check all eight lighthouses off your list.
Wyoming: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Even in a state that's wall-to-wall with magnificent scenery, this site is a high point. The deep river gorge is a rumbling mass of natural beauty, with roaming wildlife (bison, elk, and even a grizzly crossing may make traffic come to a standstill), plunging waterfalls, and canyon walls made colorful by iron compounds.
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5 of Moscow's most BEAUTIFUL districts
1. Sokolniki
By 9 a.m., the main square of Sokolniki district in the northeast of Moscow begins to fill up with dog-walkers and cyclists. The mobile coffee shops and hot dog outlets are not open yet; the only sounds are the rustling of the autumn leaves and gurgling of the main fountain, around which sleepy guards walk.
“But on the weekend, there are crowds of people here, as if the whole of Moscow descends on it,” says Raisa Bazarova, a resident of Sokolniki. She says that she literally “married” Sokolniki 21 years ago, in 1999, when she moved from the central Arbat district to live with her new husband.
Police fire station with a tower-tower in Sokolniki
It took three years for her to feel at home, finally making friends with the neighbors. Now, Raisa considers it the most beautiful area of Moscow and is fond of its low-rise skyline and architectural monuments.
“As soon as you step out of the subway, you’re in Sokolniki, and the first thing that catches the eye is the pre-revolutionary watchtower [built in 1884]. It saw the old wooden Moscow and has been preserved in all its splendor,” says Bazarova.
Moscow, park Sokolniki
Raisa also advises foreigners to visit Sokolniki Park, one of the oldest in Moscow, founded in 1878, with fountains, ponds, a swimming pool, an amusement park and its own rose garden. Sokolniki was adored by Peter the Great and Alexander I and it was here that they often held feasts. For Bazarova, the lush greenery makes it the “lungs” of the district.
The Viktyuk Theater. The building of the outstanding architect Konstantin Melnikov, 1929
Another must-see, according to Bazarova, is the Roman Viktyuk Theater — if nothing else, then to see one of Moscow’s main architectural gems, designed and built in the Constructivist style that prevailed in the city in the 1920s. Moreover, Russian-speaking theater lovers might want to catch a performance of ‘The Maids’ by French playwright Jean Genet.
2. Levoberezhny
Galina Yakunina, director of a sports club in Moscow’s north for nine years, walks with unfeigned pleasure along the main alley of Rechnoy Vokzal (“River Station”) Park, which was restored in 2020 under the ‘My district’ city improvement program.
Aerial view is a beautiful panorama of the renovated Northern River Station in Moscow
In the summer of 2020, the station, which resembles a ship, was enveloped in scaffolding, as the original 1937 edifice was being restored. Today, it is surrounded by fountains with children running around, endless flower beds and an all-new embankment that runs along a miniature replica of the Moscow Canal, replete with children’s paddle boats and other attractions.
“It’s really beautiful. Cruise ships and motor vessels depart from here. Muscovites love it and tourists definitely will as well,” says Yakunina.
Park Levoberezhnyj, Moscow
Her second favorite place for a post-work evening stroll is Druzhba (Friendship) Park, laid out for the 6th World Festival of Youth and Students in 1957. The main features are its monuments and sculptures dedicated to children, international friendship and war heroes, as well as the pond-reflected willows and the playgrounds. Thanks to these two parks, the air in the district differs sharply from that in central Moscow - that she is sure of.
Park Druzhby
In summer, Levoberezhny beach (renovated under the ‘My district’ city improvement program in 2018) becomes the main focal point and Galina heartily recommends it to tourists.
“The beach is covered with sand, with a cafe, sun loungers and beach volleyball. It’s very relaxing,” she says, describing the place.
3. Filevsky Park
For social conflict expert Alexei Ivanushkin, Filevsky Park in the city’s west has always been the main symbol of Moscow.
Fili Park embankment
“I moved here in 2005 from St Petersburg, when the Gorbushka electronics market was one of Moscow’s main draws. There were always crowds of people, poorly dressed, but eager for gadgets. We used to go to the wooded parts of Filevsky Park, clearing branches, because it was impossible to get through. There were bottles everywhere that people had just left. In other words, it was a hub for alcoholics,” Ivanushkin shares his first impressions of the area.
Church of the Protection of the Theotokos in Fili, 1690-1694, Moscow
Fifteen years later, the now-landscaped embankment of the park is Alexei’s favorite spot for daily walks and he also advises tourists to visit.
“For me, the place is full of energy and inspires the soul,” says Ivanushkin.
No less significant is the Baroque Church of the Intercession at Fili, constructed in the late 17th century and financed by the boyar Lev Naryshkin, asserts Ivanushkin. In 1812, Napoleon’s soldiers converted the first floor of the church into a stable. In 1943, the lower church was used as a hospital and then, until 1963, as a warehouse for paper products. Highly recommended to anyone interested in unusual places of worship.
Gorbunova recreation center
“The Suvorov Military School stood opposite the church. And every year at the graduation ceremony, it was a tradition for graduates to secretly raise the flag of the armed forces on the building. They tried to stop it, but no one was ever punished,” recounts Ivanushkin.
To learn more about Russian rock music, Alexei advises a visit to the Gorbunov Palace of Culture, named after Sergei Gorbunov, the director of an aircraft factory and built in 1938. In 1986, it housed the first “rock-n-roll laboratory” in Moscow, earning the building a reputation as the capital’s premier venue for rock concerts and festivals.
4. Krylatskoe
To learn more about sports facilities built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics, Krylatskoye is the place to start, says local resident Yulia Zhiltsova, who moved to Moscow from Siberia and has lived in the city’s western part for 21 years.
Krylatsky hills. Panorama
“I love walking around the velodrome and other Olympics facilities. There’s also a speed-skating center and rowing canal. Red Bull regularly organizes the Flugtag competition here, it’s really fun and interesting,” notes Zhiltsova.
Cycle Track "Krylatskoe"
In her free time, Yulia enjoys what are perhaps the capital’s most beautiful views from West Krylatsky Hill in the nearby park, offering a panorama of Moscow-City, the Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos and the arch of Zhivopisny Bridge.
She advises tourists to climb the hill, take shots of the stunning Moscow backdrops and escape the hustle and bustle of the central historical districts.
Red Bull Flugtag 2017 in Moscow
“Here you feel at one with nature, yet central Moscow is just 20 minutes down the road. There are no crowds, even on weekends. The center is packed and impersonal, but here the atmosphere is a bit more homely,” Zhiltsova explains.
5. Khoroshevsky
Khodynskoe Field in the Khoroshevsky district is notorious as the site of a deadly crush during celebrations to mark the coronation of Nicholas II in 1905. Today, it looks more like a futuristic city with fantastical towers, art objects in the local park and dancing fountains. By 8 p.m. on weekdays, the park is especially crowded — school students shoot TikTok dance videos and ride skateboards, while children run with their parents through the mirror maze.
Local resident Alexander Lyubarsky moved to Khodynka in 2010 and, as a photographer, immediately fell in love with the views.
“Every part of Khodynsky Park — be it a swing, a pond, a sports ground stylized as an airplane and helicopter, or the fountains behind us — is photogenic,” explains Lyubarsky. The Park appeared in 2018 under the ‘My district’ city renovation program.
Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Savior in the Memorial Park complex of world war I heroes. Built in 1998
His second favorite place for photos is the small Berezovaya Roscha (“Birch Grove”) Park (renovated in 2020 as part of the ‘My district’ program), which, besides birches, is home to maple, ash, and linden trees.
Every visitor to Khodynka simply must go to the World War I Heroes Memorial Park at the Bratskoe (Fraternal) Cemetery, Lyubarsky insists.
World war I Heroes memorial Park
“There’s a wonderful chapel with the buried ashes of Grand Duke Nikolai Romanov [the grandson of Nicholas I and an uncle of Nicholas II who was the Russian commander-in-chief during World War I]. Everything’s also very photogenic there,” says Lyubarsky.
In his opinion, every foreign tourist should visit Khodynka for a glimpse of what the future Russia might look like.
“It would be good if all the suburbs could be like this. I’d love this to spread beyond the Moscow Ring Road [MKAD],” he concludes.
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Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.
01 Sergiyev Posad
Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.
You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway.
If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.
The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.
03 Shakhmatovo
Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.
Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.
04 Zakharovo
It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.
The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.
05 Borodino
Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.
To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.
06 Melikhovo
Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.
The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.
07 Abramtsevo
This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.
Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.
08 Yasnaya Polyana
Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.
The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.
09 Polotnyany Zavod
This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.
To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.
Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.
The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.
- Baikal Lake read
- 25 Reasons to Visit Russian Regions read
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- 7 Top Things to Do in Karelia Region read
- The Altai Mountains read
- Siberia read
- Mountain Elbrus read
- 1. Sergiyev Posad
- 3. Shakhmatovo
- 4. Zakharovo
- 5. Borodino
- 6. Melikhovo
- 7. Abramtsevo
- 8. Yasnaya Polyana
- 9. Polotnyany Zavod
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50 Most Beautiful Places In The US To Visit In Your Lifetime
By: Author Jerric Chong
Posted on Published: June 16, 2019 - Last updated: October 15, 2023
Looking for your next adventure or travel destination in the United States?
With so many states, countless different kinds of activities, and endless landmarks scattered throughout the land, it can be hard to pick between them.
But if what you’re looking for are beautiful locations that ensnare the senses, we may be able to help.
Here are the 50 most beautiful places to visit in the US.
Table of Contents
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking paradise for those who love the outdoors.
Spanning almost 3,500 square miles, this park is a trove of steep canyons, incredible mountains, gorgeous waterfalls, and fascinating geysers.
It is also populated with teeming wildlife, such as elk, grizzly bears, and buffalo.
On top of that, it is home to the rainbow-sheened Grand Prismatic Spring, which is deeper than 10 stories and the third largest spring on the planet.
Plus, despite its pull of over 4 million tourists on an annual basis, it’s such a large place that you’ll rarely run into anyone else.
So not only is it easily one of the most beautiful places in the US, but it’s also a great spot for quiet enjoyment.
2. Maroon Bells, Colorado
Maroon Bells
Aspen, Colorado is home to the stunning and gorgeous Maroon Bells, which earn their name from the majestic appearance cast by two peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
Beneath that grand sight, you’ll be able to enjoy the crystal clear Maroon Lake, which is surrounded by lush fields full of colorful, vibrant wildflowers.
The Maroon Bells are easily in the top few most photographed attractions in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.
Everywhere you turn, you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most beautiful places in the US.
3. Watkins Glen State Park, New York
Watkins Glen State Park
The Watkins Glen State Park is located in upstate New York, within the Finger Lakes area, and it is named after the nearest town.
It may be relatively small compared to many more famous parks at 778 acres, but it is home to a gorge that holds a grand total of 19 gorgeous waterfalls.
In addition, this park contains the Rainbow Bridge and Falls, which appear absolutely fantastical, as though ripped right out of a riveting fantasy tale.
There are also plenty of places to set up camp if desired.
4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a minimalist attraction located along the border of Utah and Arizona.
In spite of its simplicity, this red-sand desert may just be one of the most beautiful places you will ever see!
A 17-mile Valley Drive leads into the area, and you can spot multiple sandstone buttes that make for amazing pictures.
This valley will make you feel like you are part of an Old Western movie, set in the Wild, Wild West.
John Ford’s Point is a great way to look over the scenery, allowing you to feast your eyes on the Mittens buttes.
5. Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is an arresting body of magnificent blue water that rests peacefully within Mount Mazama.
Spanning 53 square kilometers and 2000 feet deep, this incredible caldera was left behind after an explosion more than 7 millennia ago.
It is the deepest of all similar lakes in all of the USA.
Today, the lake provides awe-inspiring reflections of its surroundings, including the pristine, white cliffs topped with snow that flank it.
You can go scuba diving in its enticing, crystal clear depths, or simply enjoy the view.
6. Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls
New York is home to many amazing attractions, but Niagara Falls is arguably one of those that everyone will tell you not to miss.
It’s right on the border between the USA and Canada, and it’s a must-see attraction, for sure.
These falls earn over 30 million visitors on an annual basis, and it’s no surprise!
When you see all that water – six million cubic feet of it in total! – plummeting downwards at each minute of every day, you’ll be in awe, too.
7. Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park
You wouldn’t think that a basin called “ Death Valley ” would be one of the most beautiful places in the US.
After all, it is located below sea level, and it is easily the hottest and driest spot in all of America.
However, it is also home to Zabriskie Point, which is an incredible peak that provides an optimal viewing location to watch the sunset.
In addition, contrary to its name, Death Valley actually teems with life in many of its seasons.
Wildflowers sprout gorgeously after storms, snow frosts cliff tops in the winter, and small oases provide life.
It’s a surprisingly prepossessing place for one so morbidly named!
Planning a trip to California soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in California !
8. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a highway, which may surprise you, as most roads can’t be considered beautiful places.
But this highway spans 469 miles in length, over multiple countries throughout North Carolina and Virginia, and offers some of the most spectacular views in the country.
Driving down this highway will allow you to take in the stunning Appalachian mountains, including multiple valleys and peaks such as the Peaks of Otter and the famous Roanoke Mountain.
If you like, you can even get off the road and go down a hiking trail of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park or the Shenandoah National Park.
Planning a road trip around Virginia? Check out our list of things to do in Virginia !
9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is an old city that is home to multiple fascinating sites.
Its streets are paved with cobblestones and flanked by old buildings like museums and churches that are simply stuffed with history.
Downtown, you’ll find one of the biggest National Historic Landmark districts in the US, which also connect to the riverfront and the coast.
If there are particular areas you would like to visit, look no further than Forsyth Park, built in the 1840s and fitted with a stupendous fountain, romantic benches, and plenty of iconic oaks covered in moss for an even more calming aesthetic.
Up for something more spooky? Take a trip to the Bonaventure Cemetery!
Planning a trip to Savannah soon? Be sure to check out our list detailing the best things to do in Savannah, GA !
10. Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, known also as Corkscrew Canyon, is almost surreal in its beauty.
Located in Navajo territory very close by to Lake Powell, not too much hiking is required to reach this spot, which many consider the most beautiful and majestic canyon in America.
Sandstone walls and arches make up the canyon, glowing in vibrant hues of orange, red, and even pink under the streaming sunlight.
The wavy rock formations provide an otherworldly aesthetic that is sure to make you gasp in awe.
It’s no wonder that this is the state’s most photographed attraction; it’s one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see!
11. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park
The Grand Teton National Park may just be home to the most beautiful mountain that the United States has to offer!
Located not far from Yellowstone in Wyoming , this park covers a whopping 310,000 acres of land and is named after the superb Teton mountain range, which is practically ancient, with areas reaching 9 million years of age.
Countless hiking trails allow you to explore this national park in all its glory.
Appreciate nature through unique wildlife, some of which is prehistoric, and gaze in awe and wonder over clear bodies of water, formed by glaciers over the years.
12. The Wave, Arizona/Utah
Arizona is full of amazing sandstone rock formations, and one that easily ranks among beautiful places is the Wave.
Located in the Coyote Bluffs, found in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness bordering Utah, these rocks fall on Navajo territory and can be tricky to get to due to rough terrain.
If you do brave out the hard trails, you’ll be privy to the marvelous formations of sandstone forged way back in the Jurassic period.
It’s a rather exclusive trip, too – just 20 individuals are granted permission to travel to this scenic spot every day. If you’re lucky, you’ll be among them!
13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Love history? Philadelphia is the place for you!
It may not be the typical idea of the most beautiful places, but it is the only city in all of America to be named a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Its rich cultural and colonial background overflows with intrigue.
Once the US capital, this city hosts famous must-see spots such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, and more.
Of course, Philadelphia is also renowned for its delicious Philly cheese steaks, and there’s even more scrumptious food to be found in its markets.
This is also one of the best vacation destinations for those on a budget!
14. Turnip Rock, Michigan
Turnip Rock
Turnip Rock isn’t exactly the most famous of attractions in the United States, but that’s due to lack of knowledge, not lack of magnificence.
It’s a very small island that you can spot from Lake Huron’s shorelines in Port Austin, Michigan.
This island is appropriately named due to its slim lower portion that extends out of the water, gradually becoming thicker and wider as it rises into the sky – resembling the shape of a turnip!
It’s certainly an unusual geological sight, and well worth the visit via kayak.
Planning to visit Michigan? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Michigan !
15. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park located in South Dakota may sound foreboding, but in reality, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the US.
It is famous for holding an extremely rich and diverse fossil bed that is definitely one of the best that earth has to offer.
On top of that, Badlands National Park is packed with incredible rock formations that look stunning at all times of the day with their differently shaded stripes.
There are also grasslands if you’re more for wildlife, where you can spot all the prairie dogs herding sheep for a calm, serene experience.
16. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Multnomah Falls
Many people would consider Multnomah Falls as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the nation.
It is part of the Columbia River Gorge in Portland and is just one of 50 alluring falls in the collection – but it stands out for good reason.
Reaching 611 feet in height, which makes it the tallest waterfall in the state, Multnomah Falls is double tiered and cascades beautifully down in front between two hiking trails.
You can watch it from the convenient viewing platform or go on a hike above it across a connecting bridge.
17. Willow City Bluebonnets, Texas
Willow City Bluebonnets
If you love wildflowers, head down to Texas Hill Country to feast your eyes upon the delightful expanses of bright Bluebonnets along Willow City Loop in Gillespie County.
They bloom in full force every April, and you can walk along a designated Bluebonnet trail to truly get the most out of this special floral occurrence.
Even the drive to the location can be incredibly scenic when you go at the right time.
It’s a lovely, laid-back type of trip that you can take if you’re looking for some relaxation.
Visting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Austin , things to do in Galveston & things to do in Houston !
18. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai island
Kauai looks like a place right out of a fantasy book. It is an island paradise that is the oldest of all habited Hawaiian islands.
It home to such beautiful wonders as the 6,175-acre Nā Pali Coast State Park, which is packed with hiking trails, emerald green mountains, and stunning views, and the 173-foot high Wailua Falls.
Along the Nā Pali coast, you will also find the cascading, remote Honopu Beach, Hawaii, which is easily the most attractive of all beaches in the US.
There’s little to dislike about a Hawaii island vacation!
Planning a vacation to Kauai? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Kauai !
19. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park
The Glacier National Park located in Montana provides some of the most incredible views that you’ll be privy to in America.
It sits neatly on the border between Canada and the US, and it is exceedingly large in size, spanning more than 1 million acres in total.
This national park has no shortage of amazing things to see.
It is home to portions of mountain ranges as well as over a hundred named lakes, and it also serves as a habitat for hundreds of animal species and thousands of plant species.
As a cherry on top, this park is also much less crowded than many other famed ones!
20. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
White Sands National Monument
This incredibly unique location can be found in the north of the Chihuahuan Desert.
The White Sands National Monument consists of a reaching, widespread expanse of white gypsum crystal sand dunes, backdropped by a picturesque blue sky.
Though the sight of white sand as far as the eye can see isn’t the most exciting trip for some, this tranquil environment is so individual and one-of-a-kind that it is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.
Bask in the calm peace, feel the soft, warm sand beneath your toes, and marvel at the vastness of this monument.
Doing a road trip around New Mexico? You’ll love our lists detailing the best things to do in Santa Fe & the best places to visit in New Mexico !
21. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There are plenty of reasons to visit the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park , which sits on the Tennessee and North Carolina border.
It is packed with hiking routes ripe with emerald greenery, waterfalls and bodies of water, and pretty wildflowers ready for photos.
Plus, there are many great stops along the way, such as Clingmans Dome, which contains an observation tower resting on top of the area’s highest peak for breathtaking views.
There’s also Cades Cove, which is a quiet little valley that feels like a calm, quiet place lost in historical times.
Planning a trip to Tennessee soon? Check out our list of things to do in Tennessee !
22. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake that may just be the most famous of its kind in the country.
It is an alpine body of water located in the mountain range of Sierra Nevada. It is so transparently clear that you can see right down to its 70-foot depths!
There’s an air of regality about the lake – likely due to its age.
It is first believed to have formed during the ice ages, and most of its modern appearance has been around for two million years.
23. The Golden Gate Bridge, California
Golden Gate Bridge
It may be man-made, but there’s a reason that the Golden Gate Bridge is such an iconic landmark.
Towering over the world at almost 750 feet tall and connecting land across the Golden Gate strait with a 4,200 feet length, it is one of the Wonders of the Modern world and is constantly touched up by a staff of 38 painters who maintain its impressive color.
It’s safe to say that this bridge is imposing, but its behemoth size is just one of its attractions.
It is an absolute marvel of engineering and is truly an awe to behold.
Guided bike tours and cruises allow for up-close-and-personal glimpses of this monumental structure, and of course, you can simply drive across it!
Visiting San Francisco soon? You’ll love our list of things to do in San Francisco !
24. The Palouse, Idaho/Oregon/Washington
The Palouse
The Palouse is so large that it covers three states, and it was all formed naturally.
Appearing as rolling hills made from loess, which is a kind of sediment that forms from dust and silt that is blown by the wind over thousands and thousands of years.
In spring, barley and wheat are grown throughout this prairie, creating a whimsical and fantastical appearance of bright green.
It’s a great vacation spot for those seeking a little peace of mind and relaxation.
25. Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska
Mendenhall Glacier Caves
The Mendenhall Glacier Caves take a while to get to, but they are incredibly rewarding and very much worth the trip through 12 miles of caverns.
The overhead ceilings are tinted a glowing, luminescent blue thanks to the ice and the reflection from the water beneath. It’s something that has to be seen to be believed.
Unfortunately, due to climate change, these caves and the surrounding ice of its preceding caverns are beginning to melt.
As such, it’s the kind of trip that you’ll want to make sooner rather than later, before one of the most beautiful places in the US is lost to the world.
26. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
Haleakala National Park
There’s no shortage of beautiful places in Hawaii, and the Haleakala National Park is one of them.
It is situated on Maui , an island within the state, and its name literally translates to “House of the Sun”.
The park can easily be divided into two different types of trips. The first, and more renowned, is the Haleakala Volcano’s summit.
This dormant volcano is intimidating in its size, and an arduous upwards climb will lead you to its peak, where you can enjoy a staggering view, or rest in the observatory or visitor’s center.
The second portion of the park is the Kipahulu coast, which makes for a perfect beach getaway.
Going to Hawaii for a vacation? Don’t miss our awesome list of things to do in Hawaii !
27. Big Sur, California
If you’re a sucker for golden stretches of sand, basking sunsets and sunrises tinged orange and vermillion, and deep azure waters perfect for swimming, the Big Sur is a great place to go.
This coastal area is full of charming spots to explore and enjoy, ranging from the graceful architectural magnitude of the Bixby Bridge to the enchanting, picturesque McWay Falls.
There’s also the stunning, quaint Pfeiffer Beach, which is lesser known but no less delightful with soft sand and attractive rock formations to see.
28. Carlsbad Cavern, New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
In the Chihuahuan Desert lie more than 100 limestone caves, and one of them is none other than the Carlsbad Cavern .
Spikes hang from the ceiling in droves and clusters, and its winding rocky walls are perfect for spelunkers and adventurers.
The way you choose to go is up to you. You can go in through the beautiful, conventional entrance, or you can begin 750 feet underground.
Either way, you’re in for some enticing exploration!
Traveling to Albuquerque, NM soon? Check out our awesome list of things to do in Albuquerque !
29. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places in California .
It spans 748,436 acres and contains plenty of disarming visions, ranging from green groves of imposing sequoias, rushing streams flowing from cascading waterfalls, cliffs shining with granite, and countless mountains stretching on the horizon.
There’s much to see in the area, including the glacial Yosemite Valley which is surrounded by viridescent pines.
It sinks up to 3,500 feet deep and measures 7.5 miles long. You can also spot Yosemite Falls nearby.
30. Thor’s Well, Oregon
Oregon’s Thor’s Well
Thor’s Well is located in Yachats, a small, remote town, and is situated very close to the popular Cape Perpetua.
Why is it one of the most beautiful places in the US?
Well, it has a hint of mystery to it due to its optical illusion.
Essentially, if you look straight into it, it appears to be bottomless, though it is actually quite shallow at just 20 feet in depth.
At high tide, Thor’s Well becomes more dangerous, but also all the more breathtaking.
You can easily and safely catch a glimpse of it in action through a viewing platform, but we recommend you wear water-resistant clothing!
While you’re there, you can also enjoy the coastal elegance of Cape Perpetua itself.
Planning a road trip to Oregon soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Oregon !
31. Angel Oak, South Carolina
Angle Oak Tree
This is one of those beautiful places that is designated a must-visit location because of one single, incredible centerpiece: the Angel Oak .
It is a magnificent, grand oak tree aged between 400 and 500 years, and its thick, twisted branches and opulent leaves extend outwards to cover over 17,200 square feet!
The Angel Oak is located in Johns Island near Charleston in South Carolina – which is, notably, also a fantastic tourist destination.
It’s relaxing, full of beaches, packed with historical sites, and has an enjoyable mild climate.
So after a great picnic beneath the oak, you’ll have lots more to do!
Planning a trip to Charleston soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Charleston, SC !
32. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park
The Arches National Park looks like a scene out of a movie.
Erosion from millions and millions of years has led to the creation of more than 2,000 arches, each fashioned naturally from sandstone.
It is worth noting that environmental change has caused 43 of these arches to fall to time, which means officials warn against getting too close.
Still, the sight of these bright, orange structures is well worth the extra caution, and you’ll want to plan your trip soon to catch as many of them as possible in full glory.
33. Monument Rocks, Kansas
Monument Rocks / Seraph1888 [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons
These pale, craggy formations rise 70 feet into the air, and it is believed that they were formed in ancient times – nearly 80 million years in the past.
The Monument Rocks were the very first National Natural Landmark in all of the United States.
As such, if you’re a fan of visiting the most beautiful places, these rocks have to top your list.
34. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park covers 49,075 acres of land and is often overlooked, but it’s a must-see location with plenty of gorgeous features.
Teeming with rare wildlife of all kinds, the park has its share of coastline shores and contains a wealth of historical significance thanks to Native American inhabitance.
While you’re here, you can make the arduous hike up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain and receive the reward of a picturesque scene that mixes the stunning seaboard with rugged, rocky terrain.
You can also take a trip to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse for a truly exquisite view.
Planning a visit to Maine soon? Check out our awesome list of things to do in Maine and things to do in Portland, Maine !
35. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans
New Orleans is yet another gorgeous historical city that is full of heritage and culture.
Bask in delicious soul foods, sweet pastries, and suave, smooth blues and jazz.
Better yet, snoop around trinket stores and be fascinated with the charming but dark superstitious paraphernalia, and indulge.
You can also take a trip down Bourbon Street – and the rest of New Orleans’ incredible French Quarter.
It’s one of the kinds of beautiful places that will charm and entice you with its ancient architecture, rich teeming courtyards, and fascinating background.
Planning a trip to New Orleans? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in New Orleans !
36. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park
The Big Bend National Park in Rio Grande is an absolute wonder of untamed wildlife, spanning over much of the Chihuahuan Desert and all of the Chisos mountains.
Partially drawing near to the border of Mexico, this national park has so many different experiences to offer.
You can go on a road trip down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, relax in the Langford Hot Springs, view the Sam Nail Ranch’s broken-down husk, and enjoy sights of limestone formations across the Rio Grande.
There’s so much to do that you may just need to come back again!
Looking for things to do in Texas ? Don’t miss out on our lists of things to do in San Antonio & things to do in Dallas !
37. Old Man’s Cave, Ohio
Old Man’s Cave
Any location with such a mysterious name is sure to be one of those beautiful places you can’t ignore.
Old Man’s Cave provides some of the most panoramic hiking trails that you may ever see.
There are 5 main areas to choose from in the Hocking Hills State Park, which is where Old Man’s Cave lies in wait.
All of them offer countless waterfalls, gorges, and more glimpses into the beauty of nature.
Planning to visit Ohio? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Ohio !
38. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park
The Dry Tortugas National Park awaits in the Gulf of Mexico, less than 70 miles west to Florida’s famous Key West .
The park contains seven islands, with the main one holding the 19th century-built Fort Jefferson.
Throughout all the islands, you can scuba dive and snorkel (or just swim) around the deep blue waters.
As you go, you’ll be treated to many types of sea life and nearly growing coral reefs.
Do note that you can only get to this park via seaplane or boat!
Going to Florida soon? See the best places to visit in Florida !
39. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks
The Outer Banks are composed of a collection of barrier islands that string outwards from Virginia and North Carolina .
This area spans over 200 miles and has plenty of unique points, and it’s the perfect seaside getaway.
This picturesque landmark is also the site of the enchanting Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which is made from brick and is the tallest of its kind across the USA.
Its white and black spiral aesthetic is sure to capture hearts. You can also view the sunset from the well-known, lovely Jockey’s Ridge.
40. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington
Skagit Valley Tulip Fields
These farmlands are must-sees in the spring – namely in April, which is the absolute best time to take a trip to this Pacific Northwest locale.
That’s when all the bright, vibrant tulips are in full bloom, and when you can enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.
If you visit at the right time, you’ll get to see not just tulips in all sorts of pretty, warm colors, but also countless other flowers that add to the gorgeousness of the fields.
During the festival, you can taste wine, enjoy strolling through gardens, sample barbecues, and feast your eyes on art exhibits.
41. Oneonta Gorge, Oregon
Oneonta Gorge
If you like your nature experiences to boast only the best greenery and fauna that the world has to offer, then look no further than Oneonta Gorge.
The trail may be short at just 2.7 miles through and around this gorge, but that only makes it all the more enticing for first-time hikers – or those who just want a less tiring trip.
Lush woodland fauna combines strikingly with aquatic greens in Oneonta Gorge, making it look like you leaped into a storybook.
It’s the perfect shortstop that’s impossible to forget.
42. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park
The Bryce Canyon National Park ’s name is rather deceiving.
Instead of containing a canyon, what it does have are stone pinnacles that were formed naturally over time due to erosion from the stream and weathering during winter’s frost.
Multiple points throughout this park offer a stupendous view, but your best bet is Bryce Point in the southern region.
From here, you’ll get prime viewing of all the amazing stone formations, known as hoodoos, scattered about the area.
43. Ladew Topiary Gardens, Maryland
Ladew Topiary Gardens / Mark Peters / flickr
The Ladew Topiary Gardens are, believe it or not, completely non-profit.
They feature expertly carved and crafted hedges, topiary, trees, and well-kept expanses of green garden space.
They’re open for visitors between April and October.
These gardens date back to the 1930s, originally set up by the fox-hunting Harvey S. Ladew.
This is why lots of topiaries showcase animal figures, particularly those related to hunting such as foxes, dogs, horses, and even their riders.
Visiting Maryland soon? See the fun things to do in Maryland before you go!
44. Hamilton Pool, Texas
Hamilton Pool / Trey Perry [ CC BY 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons
It first came into being when an underground river’s dome caved in, and now, it waits for swimmers and divers behind a bit of forest.
This pool has a refreshing waterfall that still pours over into it from the leftover overhang, and within the pool, you can spot greenery all the way down to its crystal clear depths.
You’ll feel like you’ve been born anew after just one revitalizing dip in Hamilton Pool!
45. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park
The Zion National Park spans 146,597 acres and is packed with amazing sights and experiences, ranging from canyons to waterfalls, from rivers to trails, and from cliffs to monoliths and more.
The view from Angels Landing allows prime viewing over the Zion Canyon, as well as additional alluring views.
The Virgin River provides a picturesque and exciting trail for those who enjoy a good hike. The campgrounds offer a truly immersive wilderness experience.
There’s simply so much to do in this park!
46. Colorado River, Arizona
Horseshoe Bend
The Colorado River flows into Mexico from its start in the Rocky Mountains, and it is home to one of the most picture-perfect structures in the world: Horseshoe Bend.
The rest of the river is dreamy enough, but Horseshoe Bend truly takes the cake.
Situated near to several other gorgeous must-see spots in Arizona , Horseshoe Bend is a memorable landmark in Colorado River.
Apart from that, you can enjoy getting back to your roots with a nature-filled exploration across the beautiful area.
47. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve boast incredible sand dunes that are actually the highest in all of the north continent – most notably, the Star Dune, which towers above all.
You can explore the Sangre de Cristo mountains by driving along the Medano Pass Primitive Road.
Take a trip at the right time to be able to lounge at the Medano Creek and its beach, or simply hike across the trails to see the Medano Lake alongside other wonders: like different forests teeming with unique sights and special wetlands that are unlike any other.
Visiting Colorado soon? Don’t miss out on our list of things to do in Colorado !
48. Antelope Valley, California
Antelope Valley
Antelope Valley calls the Mojave Desert Grassland its home.
While you don’t often think of deserts as particularly fertile land, visit in the spring to have that idea turned on its head!
Over a whopping 1,780 acres, a giant poppy reserve makes up the valley.
In the right season, these poppies bloom with all their might, revealing bright, dashing orange visuals that take over the entire area in a fiery burst of spirited florals.
There’s no end in sight for fields and fields of poppies that will have you waxing poetic as you languish in their midst.
49. Kenai Fjords, Alaska
Kenai Fjords National Park
The Kenai Fjords are largely taken up by an impressive forty shining glaciers that easily swarf their surroundings.
They make for what might just be the most dazzling fjord in all of the United States – and it’s fitting that they would be in Alaska !
Apart from the glaciers, there’s lots of unique, regional wildlife that you can see.
Look to the skies to spot bald eagles and peregrine falcons, and out to the seas to spot seals and even humpback whales.
Plan your trip soon, though, as global warming is reducing many of the glaciers that make the Kenai Fjords so magnificent.
50. New York City, New York
New York City
Sure, New York City is a little unconventional when you think of the most beautiful places in the US, but there’s a reason it’s on our list!
It’s a shopper’s paradise, and it’s home to the lush Central Park.
It spans 843 acres and is packed with gorgeous gardens and lawns, plus plenty of regularly updated paths and lochs!
Head down to New York City in the winter to see the incredible sights – blinding Christmas lights as far as the eye can see, a gargantuan Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, and the stunning and heartwarming show, The Nutcracker, performed by the New York City Ballet.
Enjoy entertainment, sights, sounds, tastes, and shopping in this bustling metropolis.
Start Planning Your Bucket List
As you can see, there are plenty of stunning places to visit in the USA.
From breathtaking valleys to sunkissed lakes and magnificent canyons, you cannot go wrong to choose some of these beautiful places in the USA to your bucket list.
Sunday 5th of November 2023
These recommendations are amazing for visiting amazing places in the USA! I especially appreciate the content. With Many thanks.
Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !
- General Information
- What to see
- How to get to Moscow
- Where to stay
- Where to eat
Why visit Moscow?
Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.
The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful St Basil's Cathedral .
Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people," as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!
Where to start?
If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.
Looking for a place to stay?
Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!
Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?
Introducing Moscow is a city guide written by travelers for travelers and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.
All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .
Our travel guides
- top attractions
- and much more
The Top 10 Must-See Places in Moscow
1. red square.
3. The Moscow Metro
Perhaps you already know, but there is a great difference between Moscow, St. Petersburg, and all other towns and cities in Russia. Visiting the countryside is a great opportunity to travel the real Russia and to see the common life of ordinary people. The best choice for a one-day Russian countryside experience is the Vladimir and Suzdal tour.
Vladimir and Suzdal are small towns that are famous worldwide because of their great history and picturesque architecture with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the 12th century. Aside from golden cupolas of stunning churches and monasteries, you will experience a very rural real Russian outlook with bubbling streams and grassy meadows, chickens and livestock, and interesting and authentic local residents. All are a common sight on the streets, some of which remain unpaved. Be ready for a full-day trip and many unforgettable experiences during your Russian holidays!
•Road-tripping from Moscow to St. Petersburg
•Ecotour along the Volga River with visiting limestone quarries
•Real Russian countryside
•One day in a traditional Russian village
There is a great difference between Moscow, St. Petersburg, and all other Russia... The concept of this tour is to show you the real Russia with numerous small towns, pristine nature, abandoned churches and the life of people.
This tour does not include Golden Ring towns! Instead, you will see Staritsa town and Novgorod the Great, beautiful places to visit in Russia!
We will also visit an elderly couple living in a traditional Russia village. We will help them with their daily work - plowing the land (not by tractors, but by horses), caring for the livestock and cooking food in a traditional Russian oven… And surely we will taste some real fresh milk and eggs while they will be telling us about their common life, their habits, and the households.
The itinerary is perfect for those who are going to St. Petersburg. It takes only 4 hours to get there from Novgorod by a cheap local train.
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TravelAwaits
Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.
19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow
- Destinations
Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.
I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.
1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings
Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!
Saint Basil’s Cathedral
This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!
Lenin’s Mausoleum
The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.
Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.
Eternal Flame
There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.
The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.
Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.
2. Bolshoi Theatre
Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.
Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.
Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.
3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM
Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.
4. Christ The Savior Cathedral
This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!
The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.
Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.
5. Gorky Park
Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.
6. Sparrow Hills Park
If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city
Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.
7. River Cruising
One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.
8. Metro Hopping
Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.
Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.
9. Moscow State University View
In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.
10. Izmailovsky Market
Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.
The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.
Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!
11. Moscow City
With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.
12. Tretyakov Gallery
Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!
13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve
Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.
14. Kolomenskoye
A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.
15. Ostankino TV Tower
Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.
Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.
16. Zaryadye Park
Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.
These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.
17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games
Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.
18. Moscow Rooftop Tour
Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!
19. Sanduny Banya
This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!
So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.
Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:
- 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
- Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
- Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia
Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.
Protect Your Trip »
The 50 most beautiful places in the world.
Let these gorgeous destinations inspire you to travel more.
(Getty Images) |
From national parks to extraordinary beaches, these travel spots are sure to please.
Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla
Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming
Ksamil, Albania
Glacier National Park: Montana
(Courtesy of Visit Florida) |
Sanibel and Captiva Islands: Florida
Angel Falls: Canaima National Park, Venezuela
Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu Archaeological Park, Peru
Hever Castle: Kent, England
Budapest, Hungary
Cliffs of Moher: Lislorkan North, County Clare, Ireland
Kyoto, Japan
The Botanical Gardens of Nevis: Nevis
Hanalei Bay: Kauai, Hawaii
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The Azores: Portugal
Flam, Norway
Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia
Banff National Park: Canada
Boulders Beach: Cape Town, South Africa
Canterbury, England
Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona
Venice, Italy
Pamukkale, Turkey
Krabi, Thailand
Glencoe, Scotland
Grindelwald, Switzerland
Fiordland National Park: New Zealand
Havasu Falls: Arizona
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Blue Ridge Mountains: United States
Halong Bay: Vietnam
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Bergen, Norway
Seljalandsfoss: Iceland
Palm Beach: Noord, Aruba
Bagan, Myanmar
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia
Raja Ampat Islands: Indonesia
Tel Aviv, Israel
Loire Valley: France
Jaipur, India
Meteora: Kalabaka, Greece
Petra, Jordan
Positano, Italy
Platinum Coast: Barbados
Guilin, China
Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia, and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Rothenburg, Germany
Lake Bled: Bled, Slovenia
Giza, Egypt
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Top Things to Do in Moscow, Russia
Places to visit in moscow, explore popular experiences, top attractions in moscow.
What travellers are saying
- Saint Basil's Cathedral
- State Tretyakov Gallery
- Moscow Metro
- Moscow Kremlin
- Neskuchny sad
- Aleksandrovskiy Sad
- Kuskovo Estate
- Sokolniki Park
- Put-in Tours
- Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours
- Walks With Folks
- Destinations
30 Most Beautiful Places In The US To Visit In Your Lifetime
The United States is a vast and diverse country that boasts a plethora of breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks. From natural wonders and stunning coastlines to vibrant cities and historic sites, there is something for everyone to explore. This article showcases 30 of the most beautiful places in the US that are worth visiting in your lifetime. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey across the country!
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a geological marvel with its layered red rocks, dramatic vistas, and the Colorado River running through it. Visitors can hike, raft, or simply take in the breathtaking views.
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Home to the world's largest collection of geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park is a must-see for nature lovers. Explore the park's unique hydrothermal features, abundant wildlife, and striking landscapes.
3. Yosemite National Park, California
Known for its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite National Park is a hiker's paradise. Don't miss iconic landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
4. Glacier National Park, Montana
With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Explore the pristine forests, alpine meadows, and spectacular mountain peaks while keeping an eye out for wildlife like grizzly bears and mountain goats.
5. Niagara Falls, New York
Straddling the border between the US and Canada, Niagara Falls is a powerful and awe-inspiring natural wonder. Experience the thunderous roar of the water from various observation points or take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls.
6. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park's red sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and unique rock formations make it a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike. The Virgin River, which carved out the park's main canyon, provides a refreshing oasis in the desert.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
This charming southern city boasts cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and a rich history. Explore the historic district, visit plantations, and savor the delicious lowcountry cuisine.
8. Savannah, Georgia
Another beautiful southern gem, Savannah is known for its well-preserved historic district, Spanish moss-draped oak trees, and picturesque squares. Stroll through the city's streets and enjoy its rich history, art, and culture.
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
The birthplace of jazz and home to the world-famous Mardi Gras, New Orleans is a city of music, food, and unique culture. Explore the French Quarter, take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, and don't forget to try some authentic Creole cuisine.
10. New York City, New York
The "City that Never Sleeps" is a must-visit for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and unparalleled cultural offerings. Visit Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the many world-class museums and galleries.
11. San Francisco, California
This vibrant city by the bay is known for its steep hills, cable cars, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Explore Alcatraz Island, visit Fisherman's Wharf, and savor the diverse cuisine in this cultural melting pot.
12. Miami, Florida
Miami's sun-soaked beaches, art deco architecture, and lively nightlife make it a popular destination. Don't miss the vibrant neighborhoods of South Beach and Little Havana.
13. Chicago, Illinois
The "Windy City" is home to stunning architecture, world-class museums, and deep-dish pizza. Discover the city's famous skyline, take a boat tour along the Chicago River, and explore the many diverse neighborhoods.
14. Seattle, Washington
This Pacific Northwest gem is famous for its coffee culture, the iconic Space Needle, and Pike Place Market. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and the Puget Sound, Seattle offers a perfect blend of urban and natural attractions.
15. Washington, D.C.
The nation's capital is a treasure trove of history, culture, and iconic landmarks. Visit the White House, explore the National Mall's many monuments, and discover the numerous world-class museums.
16. Big Sur, California
Big Sur's rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Drive along the scenic Highway 1, hike through redwood forests, and soak in the beauty of this natural paradise.
17. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its mist-covered peaks, abundant wildlife, and colorful fall foliage. Hike the park's many trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and explore the rich cultural history of the region.
18. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona's stunning red rock formations and vibrant energy draw visitors from around the world. Hike or mountain bike through the area's many trails, take a jeep tour, or simply relax and take in the awe-inspiring views.
19. Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park boasts rocky coastlines, dense forests, and picturesque mountains. Drive along the Park Loop Road, hike the many trails, or enjoy the park's stunning scenery from a kayak.
20. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Experience the power of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two active volcanoes. Explore the park's unique volcanic landscapes, hike through lava tubes, and witness the glow of lava flows after dark.
21. Denali National Park, Alaska
Home to North America's tallest peak, Denali, this national park offers pristine wilderness and incredible wildlife. Take a scenic bus tour, go hiking, or try your hand at mountaineering for the ultimate adventure.
22. Antelope Canyon, Arizona
This mesmerizing slot canyon, located on Navajo land, features stunning sandstone formations and breathtaking light displays. Take a guided tour through the canyon and capture the unique beauty of this natural wonder.
23. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and outdoor recreation. Visit the stunning Biltmore Estate, explore the River Arts District, and hike the surrounding mountain trails.
24. Maroon Bells, Colorado
These two iconic peaks near Aspen are among the most photographed mountains in North America. Hike the scenic trails, take in the spectacular views, and enjoy the stunning alpine lakes.
25. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
This remote park in southeastern Alaska is a haven for wildlife, including whales, sea otters, and puffins. Cruise through the park's fjords, witness massive tidewater glaciers, and explore its vast wilderness.
26. Outer Banks, North Carolina
This chain of barrier islands offers pristine beaches, historical sites, and a laid-back atmosphere. Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and enjoy the area's water sports.
27. Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah
This iconic landscape of sandstone buttes and mesas has been featured in countless movies and commercials. Take a guided tour, go horseback riding, or simply take in the breathtaking views of this unique desert landscape.
28. Key West, Florida
The southernmost point of the continental US, Key West is known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and tropical atmosphere. Stroll along Duval Street, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and take a sunset sail on the crystal-clear waters.
29. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Famous for its hoodoo rock formations, Bryce Canyon offers a surreal landscape of red rock spires, natural amphitheaters, and stunning vistas. Hike the park's many trails, take a scenic drive, and marvel at the star-filled night skies.
30. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Straddling the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe offers both natural beauty and a variety of recreational activities. Enjoy the clear blue waters, ski or snowboard at world-class resorts, and hike the surrounding trails for incredible views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The United States is home to a diverse array of breathtaking places to visit. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure, this list of 30 beautiful destinations offers something for everyone. Embark on a journey to explore the many wonders of the US and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Places to Visit in Moscow
- Places To Visit
Tourist Places in Moscow
Here is the list of best places to visit in moscow:.
The Moscow Kremlin
St. Basil's Cathedral
The State Tretyakov Gallery
Lenin's Mausoleum
Bolshoi Theatre
State Historical Museum
Gorky Central Park Of Culture And Leisure
Arbat Street
All Russian Exhibition Center
Best of Russia
The Moscow Planetarium
Sparrow Hills
Ostankino Television Tower
Glavniy Botanicheskiy Sad Run Im. N.V. Tsitsino
Neskuchny Garden
Monument To Minin And Pozharsky
Armoury Chamber
Novodevichy Convent
Best of Saint Petersburg
Kolomenskoye
Museum Of Cosmonautics
Grand Kremlin Palace
The Pushkin State Museum Of Fine Arts
Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve
Losiny Ostrov National Park
Granovitaya Palata
Garden Ring
Best of Cairo
Usadba Izmaylovo
Poklonnaya Hill
Kuskovo Summer Palace
Dormition Cathedral
Muzeon Park Of Art
Ivan The Great Bell Tower
Tverskaya Street
Best of Kazakhstan
Cathedral Of Christ The Saviour
Dream Island
Terem Palace
Sokolniki Park
Alexander Garden
Museum Of The Great Patriotic War
People Also Ask About Moscow
What should you not miss in moscow, which are the best places to visit in moscow at night, which are some of the famous monuments to visit in moscow, what is famous in moscow, is it safe to travel in moscow, how many days do i need in moscow, what is the best time to visit moscow, moscow reviews.
More Things to do in Moscow
More on moscow tourism, popular related destinations.
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Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.
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- Moscow In Winter 2024: 10 Things To Do In The City That Holds To The Key To Russia’s Past
11 Nov 2021
Moscow is the capital of Russia, the cold wonderland sometimes also called the Motherland, by natives. While it is true that Russia is one of the coldest places in the world, a temperature that some people may find to be very disturbing, one should never assume that this has stopped the people from visiting it. Here are a few things to do in Moscow in winter .
10 Things To Do In Moscow In Winter
Thinking what to do when Moscow weather in winter in chilly and pleasant? When visiting Moscow in winter, there are several things that regular tourists miss out on. Whether one is talking about lesser known but awesome sights, places to visit in Moscow during winter that pack excitement like nothing else or thrilling things to do, the Motherland has plenty of each!
- Celebrate Christmas
- Visit Moscow Zoo
- Ice Skating On The Red Square
- Snowmobiling To Shunut Mountain
- Visit Forgotten Ice Caves
- Explore The Ural Buddhist Temple
- Glance At Giant Lenin Head
- Tour Around The Garage Museum
- Play Around At The Planetarium
- Treat Your Palates At Sokolniki Market
1. Celebrate Christmas
Image Source Now, residents of elite European nations like the British or the Americans may think that they know how to celebrate Christmas, and they do so with party light, plenty of poppers and Christmas trees galore. But, and trust me here, Russians truly know to celebrate Christmas. Being one of the 12 Feasts, and one of the four most important ones, Russians go absolutely crazy on Christmas, as they participate in all night vigils, praying in millions and feasting like never before! Christmas in Moscow is a festival to experience at least once in the lifetime. They have a single for each of the 12 apostles, which means a whopping total of 12 side dishes! It is promised to be one of the best Moscow Winter Festivals. Moscow winter calls for some most amazing times!
Must Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More
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2. Visit Moscow Zoo
Image Source Ever been to a zoo that is the size of a city? Well, the Moscow Zoo may just be larger than some small cities and hence, one of the must visit places in Moscow ! A sprawling complex that houses animals from over a thousand different species, one can see just about any animal they want to in this awesome zoo. Moscow Zoo is famous for its conservation efforts, as one can witness first-hand how they try to repopulate almost extinct species. One can also attend one of the many lectures, seminars, and tours there, to know more about the Zoo, it’s awesome animals and its conservation efforts.
Suggested Read: Moscow Nightlife: For A Lively Vacation In The Russian City That Never Sleeps!
3. Ice Skating On The Red Square
Image Source Undoubtedly one of the most famous sights in Russia, the Red Square is one of the most historical places in the country, as it was here that the fate of Russia was fought over by the Nazis and Russians. However, .winter here is much more amazing than one would think, as a rink goes up early in the winter, and hundreds of excited skaters arrive with rollerblades in hand. We really recommend trying out this experience in Moscow !
Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Moscow That Redefine Luxury Like None Other!
4. Snowmobiling To Shunut Mountain
Image Source Shunut Mountain is the absolute highest point of the entire Ural Mountains and can be quite difficult to reach because of all the snow. However, one can take this often breath-taking tour, where they use snowmobiles to get to Shunut Mountain. Starting from Ekaterinburg, this tour is very famous among both tourists and natives alike. You must give it a try if you are Moscow in December !
Suggested Read: Shopping In Moscow: 14 Top Places That Will Make You Believe The City Is As Classy & Chic As Milan!
5. Visit The Forgotten Ice Caves
Image Source
This is by far one of the most well-known tours on this list, as not only is the center of the most beautiful things to see in the entire country, the tours arrange for transport to and from the country itself, food, lodging and everything else that the guest could need, providing a surreal experience for those who take it. Arriving in Moscow, this tour slowly makes its way towards the countryside of Russia. Aside from the sights, this trip also makes people realize what to wear in Moscow in winter- the heaviest clothes they can!
Suggested Read: Summer In Moscow: Soak In The Landscapes Of This Stunning City
6. Explore The Ural Buddhist Temple
This tour not only visits one of the most famous viewpoints in the country, but it could be that the journey would be far more exciting than the destination. Now, you would be thinking why, and the answer is that this tour does not use conventional types of transport. Instead of buses and cars, you will be riding on ATVs, a type of quad bike. Both the journey on quad bikes and the destination- the Bshad Sgrub Gling Buddhist Temple- are sure to be very exciting! This trip gets even more exciting with the inclusion of winter weather in Moscow, making the trip even more challenging.
Suggested Read: Russian Museums: For A Tour Down The Country’s Expansive And Profound Culture!
7. Glance At Giant Lenin Head
Image Source Now, this may seem weird to some people, but one of the most famous statues in Russia is the Giant Lenin Head. Displayed at Ulan Ude, this is the tallest depiction of the leader ever shown, as the head towers 25 feet above the ground. Weirdly, this is one of the most popular places for newlyweds to take pictures, though that logic may be a bit flawed. Seeing this place in winter is even more worthwhile, as the head is often decorated with a hat of fresh snow.
Suggested Read: Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg
8. Tour Around The Garage Museum
Image Source One of the most technologically advanced museums in the entire country, this museum is housed in the former restaurant Seasons, a booming business in the 1960s. However, today it is one of the most famous museums in the country, as it has five different exhibition halls, a media space and a huge educational center full of interesting sights to see. When on a trip to Moscow, you should pay a visit to this beautiful museum in the Russian capital!
Suggested Read: With The Red Square Turning White, Snowfall In Moscow Hits A 100-Year High!
9. Play Around At The Planetarium
If you have a thing for planets and the meteoroids, do add the planetarium in your list when visiting Moscow in January . This Planetarium is an interactive spot that hosts some of the most beautiful music performances as well. From giving travelers a chance to glance at the various aspects of space to indulging in some of the most entertaining games, this Planetarium has got it all. One can also take a guided tour to roam around and understand the planetarium to the fullest.
Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Russia: Romantic Places That Add A Spark To Your Trip
10. Treat Your Palates At Sokolniki Market
Visiting Moscow in winter can turn out to be a splendid time, especially for your taste buds! Located just a few steps from the Sokolniki metro station, one can hear the hustle and bustle of the crowds as the shopkeepers and consumers negotiate. Upon reaching the market one can witness small mountains of some extremely colorful and fresh fruits and vegetables. With the smell of barbeque mixing in the air with the aroma of coffee, this market is perfect to visit to experience the true Moscow life!
Further Read: Enjoy A Joyous Christmas In Moscow With These Vibrant & Unique Experiences
After reading this list of things to do in Moscow in winter, one would naturally come to the conclusion that visiting Russia at least once in their lives is a must, as this snowy wonderland, and all of its varied and different wonders, is not a sight to miss!
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moscow In Winter
What is the average temperature in Moscow in winter?
The average temperature ranges from 4°C to 13°C in Moscow city in winter.
How cold is Moscow in winter?
The average temperature ranges from 4°C to 13°C in Moscow in winter.
Does it snow in Moscow in December?
Yes. In December the weather in Moscow is unusually cold and wet because of the snowfall.
How much snow does Moscow Russia get a year?
It begins to snow n December in Moscow and continues till the end of March. These are the months that Moscow experiences snow.
What is the coldest month in Moscow?
In Moscow, the coldest month lately has been February. The starting of this month is usually the coldest time in the city.
Can you wear jeans in Russia?
Yes, one can easily wear jeans in Russia when going for a casual outlook.
What should I wear in Moscow in winter?
In the winter season in Moscow, one is expected to wear boots, heavy coats, gloves, socks, scarves, shoes, and hats to bear the cold.
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Wealth of Geeks
Some Of The Most Beautiful Places To Visit in West Virginia
Posted: February 27, 2024 | Last updated: February 27, 2024
With warmer weather around the corner, it’s natural to start thinking about vacations. If you’re looking for some new ideas of places to travel, we’d recommend that you listen to John Denver:
“Country roads, take me home To the place I belong West Virginia, mountain mama Take me home, country roads”
With the tagline of “Almost Heaven,” West Virginia has plenty to live up to, especially when it comes to gorgeous places. While the state may not be the largest in the U.S. (it comes in at #41 out of 50), what it does offer visitors packs a jaw-dropping pretty punch. Here are the most beautiful places to visit in West Virginia.
1. New River Gorge National Park
Once simply a beautiful area with Class IV rapids, New River Gorge grows in popularity yearly. In 2020, the area was officially designated as a National Park, and for good reason. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find plenty of beautiful hiking, zipline, and, of course, whitewater rafting.
If you’re up for a challenge and want to see some stunning sights, head to the New River Gorge Bridge, a 3,000-foot-long architectural wonder that hosts an annual day where daring folks do free jumping. If you’re not that much of a daredevil, try out the bridge walk that offers a 24-inch wide platform underneath the roadway. Additionally, if you’re looking for places to eat, head to the local town of Lansing, WV.
2. Blackwater Falls State Park
If you want to visit West Virginia ’s most iconic waterfall, head to Blackwater Falls State Park . Compliments of the tannic acid released by fallen hemlock trees and red spruce needles, the water falling off the 62-foot plunge gives off an amber hue. From the park’s parking lot, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to get to the viewing decks.
3. Monongahela National Forest
Established in 1920, Monongahela National Forest is a true state treasure. Its ecologically diverse 919,000 acres offer elevations from 1,000 feet up to 4,863 feet above sea level. With an extensive backroad road and trail system, it’s a hiker’s haven. If you’re looking for a well-rounded outdoor experience, you’re lucky: the forest has everything from mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and fishing to horseback riding and hunting.
4. The Greenbrier
If you love historical lodging, The Greenbrier will be right up your proverbial street. Since 1778, the massive property has been the (White) House away from home for nearly a dozen U.S. Presidents, from Kennedy to The Bushes. With 710 guest rooms, ten lobbies, and 55 indoor and outdoor activities, it’s a must-visit place in West Virginia.
The Greenbrier has been on my travel bucket list since I’ve known about it, not only for its luxury and beauty but also for its four-season beauty. In winter, sleigh rides bring back holiday nostalgia, and the calmness and pristine grounds are ideal for families and couples getaways.
5. Harpers Ferry
In the heart of Appalachia, and at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, is Harpers Ferry, a quaint town filled with laidback charm. The lowest point in the state at 247 feet above sea level, it’s an ideal day trip. Famous for John Brown’s Raid against slavery in 1799, the downtown area is beautiful thanks to its 19th-century buildings and adorable streets.
Away from downtown, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is very busy, especially during moderate temperatures. Remember there is an entrance fee, so take cash or credit card. Additionally, check out the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath that’s part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.
6. Seneca Caverns
In the 1400s, the Seneca Indians used the cave for shelter and ceremonial purposes, but these days, Seneca Caverns is a major tourist attraction. It is located in Riverton, WV, and sits at a constant 54 degrees, perfect in the summer and the cold winter. Don’t worry about uneven pathways; the cave walk offers a smooth path and handrails where necessary.
7. Hawks Nest State Park
Not as large as many of the national and state parks in the state, its 270 acres are filled with beauty and attractions to make your heart pump. The park offers jetboat rides, hiking, walking, and photography , but its most famous attraction is the aerial tramway.
There’s no way not to mention the Hawk’s Nest Overlook, a panoramic view of the Hawks Nest Tunnel, New River, and the breathtakingly beautiful mountains. To access it, you’ll need to park at the parking area and walk roughly ¼ of a mile, but trust me, it’s worth it.
8. Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort
Remember the days of ski resorts only being open during the winter months? Happily, that’s no longer the way for many properties, including Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort . During the winter, it brings in skiers from the surrounding states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C., for upscale lodging, fun ski runs, and terrain-based learning programs for beginners.
In summer, it’s all about the outdoors, and there’s plenty to do, including sporting clays shooting, off-roading, mountain biking, kayaking at the lake, and scenic ski lift rides. If that wasn’t enough to lure you in, its dining options range from pizza to top-notch restaurants.
9. Charleston
Drive through Charleston, and on a sunny day, its gold dome (23.5 karat dome, to be precise) will make you want to visit. Historical to the core, West Virginia’s capital city is filled with fun things to do. With a highly walkable downtown area, head to the West Virginia State Museum for insights into the state’s and city’s history. If you love quaint streets, Capitol Street is the place to go for shopping and dining. No matter what time of year you go, Haddad Riverfront Park is the place to go for views of the Kanawha River.
10. Wheeling
When I was much younger, my parents would announce, “Let’s get the Wheeling feeling!” every time we’d hop in the car to visit. While the rhyming phrase is outdated, the city is still filled with happiness and music. My top pick is Oglebay Park, packed with family-friendly fun, including the Good Zoo, miniature train display, and museums. During the holidays, its Festival of Lights brings people from hours away to see the animated outdoor displays.
As for more outdoorsy fun, Wheeling Park and Heritage Port Amphitheater offer everything from picnicking to live music. If you visit during the colder months, there are many indoor activities to keep you entertained: The Kruger Street Train & Toy Museum, Oglebay Institute Glass Museum, Wheeling Artisan Center, and the Eckhart House for tea parties are all guaranteed to satisfy.
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Best attractions in Moscow: Top 31
There is an endless list of things to see in Moscow. Read our review, and you will learn about the main sights of Moscow, without seeing which your trip around the capital would be incomplete.
What to see in Moscow first of all?
In compiling our rating “interesting places in Moscow”, we took into account the reviews of tourists and recommendations of experienced guides. Arriving in the capital, you should definitely see:
1. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square
Moscow’s most famous and most visited sights. The towers of the Kremlin, decorated with chimes and five-pointed ruby stars, are considered a symbol of the metropolis. The construction of the Kremlin, as an object for the defense of the city, began back in the 12th century. Later it was reconstructed and rebuilt many times. If you do not know where to go in Moscow during national holidays, be sure to visit Red Square. Here are organized cultural festivities, all sorts of fairs and celebrations.
Official site: https://www.kreml.ru
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2. st. basil’s church.
The construction of the temple complex began in honor of the capture of Kazan by order of Ivan the Terrible. Initially the facade was painted in white and red, and the dome was gilded. After a fire in the 13th century, however, the temple “acquired” its present delightful multicolored domes.
Official website: http://www.patriarchia
3. Moscow City
The business center of the city, represented by futuristic modern high-rises. The project of the quarter is unique not only for our country, but also for all Eastern European countries. It was conceived as a domestic analogue of the business districts of New York and London. Among others, you will see here a building that is 235 meters high. By the way, each high-rise has its own name.
Official website: http://citymoscow.ru/
4. Cathedral of Christ the Savior
An Orthodox cathedral presented to the city to commemorate the victory in the Patriotic War. The construction work lasted more than 40 years, the idea was carried out by the famous architect K. Ton. Ton. During the Soviet government the temple was almost completely destroyed. However in 1994-1997 it was reconstructed and made one of the main historical monuments of the capital.
Official website: http://new.xxc.ru/
5. Novodevichy Monastery
Moscow’s most ancient monastery for the fairer sex. According to legend, it stands on a site where, in the days of the Golden Horde, women were selected to be sent into slavery. The temple was built over 500 years ago by order of Vasily the Third. Later in the Novodevichy monastery there were many persons of the royal family, women of boyar and princely blood. Some were imprisoned here at the will of others. In fact, the building is a reliable fortress with high walls.
Official site: http://novodev.msk.ru/
6. Church of the Ascension in Kolomenskoye
Just like many other of Moscow’s best sights, this one is on the banks of the capital’s river. It is believed that the church was erected by architect P. Small (Italian by birth). The building, cross-shaped with beams, was one of the first stone architectural masterpieces in Russia. The height of the bell tower is 62 meters.
Official site: http://www.mgomz.ru/
7. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
One of the main temples of Catholics in Moscow. The architectural style is neo-Gothic. The legendary building is decorated with colored stained-glass windows, ascending decorative figure towers and lancet arches. In addition to seeing the exterior and interiors, as well as church services, you can drop in here for organ concerts.
Official website: http://www.catedra.ru/
8. Kolomna Palace
The 17th century wooden building is located in Kolomensky Park. The interiors amaze numerous guests with its luxurious and expensive appearance. During the reign of Catherine II, it was decided to dismantle the structure. However, thanks to the detailed drawings of the building, later it was rebuilt in its original form. Today this palace is included in any reviews “ The best sights of Russia “ - every tourist should visit it.
Official site: http://www.mgomz.
9. Tsaritsyno museum-reserve
Don’t know what to see in Moscow in 1 day with the whole family? Come to this palace and park complex, which occupies an area of a hundred hectares. All the main buildings on the territory were created in pseudo-Gothic and Gothic styles back in the 18th century. At one time, the current museum was a residence for the royal family. Now there are concerts of folk and classical music, festivals and exhibitions. Many guests and residents of the metropolis come here for a quiet rest in the fresh air, to explore the amazing architecture and landscapes of Tsaritsyno.
Official site: http://tsaritsyno-museum.ru/
10. Kremlin in Izmailovo
If your trip to the capital involves an introduction to Russian architecture, head to see this 17th-century landmark. The current building was erected according to ancient drawings and sketches of the time as an attraction for travelers. Today, the territory of the Izmailovsky Kremlin has a temple, several taverns, a museum and craftsmen’s shops.
Official site: http://www.kremlin-
11. Krutitskoye podvorye
An example of 17th century architecture on Taganka. Originally there was a church here, after that a residence for the higher clergy. A visit to the patriarchal courtyard will allow you to understand what the metropolis was like a few centuries ago.
Official website: http://krutitsy.ru
12. Kuskovo Estate
A beautiful building, surrounded by an equally beautiful park. Previously, the Sheremetev family arranged theatrical premieres and society balls in the manor complex. Now there is a museum with exhibits made of ceramics. Besides, musical performances and all sorts of exhibitions are held here.
Official website: http://kuskovo.ru/
13. Bolshoi Theatre
The key ballet and opera scene of our country in different eras. The date of construction of the first building of the theater - 1825. Later it was restored and rebuilt several times. An ideal place for those interested in excursions in Moscow dedicated to the world of art.
Official website: https://www.bolshoi.ru/
14. State Tretyakov Gallery
The museum has become famous for its many exhibits (an average of about 180,000 specimens) - icons, prints, and paintings by the greatest artists of various years. More than 150 years ago the Tretyakov Gallery received as a gift a collection of paintings that belonged to the family of P. Tretyakov. The gallery is one of the brightest examples of what a person of any age and interest should visit in Moscow.
Official website: http://www.tretyakovgallery.
15. State Historical Museum
In the exhibition complex of 1872, built by order of Alexander the Second, numerous collections with artifacts from various centuries - from ancient times to the beginning of the 20th century - are offered to the attention of guests.
Official website: http://www.shm.ru
16. Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
Date of establishment - 1913. The exhibition contains about 700 items - unique ancient Egyptian specimens, products from the collections of Moscow University and the Cabinet of Fine Arts.
Official website: https://pushkinmuseum.
17. Nikulin’s Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard
At all times, only the most famous and talented circus artists and troupes have performed in this legendary circus. That is why the institution thrives to this day. In 1980 it was completely rebuilt, leaving only the facade of the former construction unchanged.
Official website: http://www.circusnikuli
18. Bunker 42 on Taganka
A specimen of the last century, located 65 m underground. It was built as an autonomous command post in case of a nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. Now a museum is set up here, on the displays of which the best guides in Moscow give their fascinating tours. There is also a restaurant open here.
Official site: http://bunker42.com/
19. Ostankino TV Tower
The 540-meter TV tower can be called one of the most recognizable symbols of the metropolis. It broadcasts throughout our country. Inside there are offices and studios of the main Russian TV channels. Guests are invited to buy a ticket for a guided tour. During the program you can go up to the observation deck, and enjoy the views of the entire city.
Official website: http://www.tvtower.ru/
20. Sparrow Hills
Talking about the main sights of Moscow, it is impossible not to mention briefly the key observation deck of the capital. From it you can see multistory buildings of the Moscow City district, Stalin’s high-rise buildings and the Moskva River. Here people ride bicycles, make morning jogs and simply have a walk. Besides it is a place for various celebrations and socially important events.
Official site: http://vorobyovy-gory.ru/
Moscow sights: what else to visit in Moscow?
Hotels in Moscow should be booked in advance. Otherwise, instead of viewing historical and cultural monuments you will be busy looking for accommodation. In addition to the above-mentioned sights, your attention in the city deserves such objects as:
21. Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill
An object created to commemorate the great victory in the Great Patriotic War. On the territory of the exhibition complex there are museums, whose exhibits tell about the events of the terrible war. Not so long ago, a memorial was opened in the park square dedicated to the soldiers of World War I.
Official website: http://www.poklonnaya
22. VDNKH (ALL-RUSSIA EXHIBITION CENTRE)
A popular vacation spot for Muscovites and tourists from all over the world. Interesting museums, organized cultural, entertainment and business events, reconstructed historical pavilions, high quality of leisure are the reasons for the “attendance boom” of the modern VDNKh.
Official website: http://vdnh.ru/
23. Triumphal gates
The object was arranged to commemorate the successful conclusion of the Patriotic War. The architect Bove was in charge of the design of the arch. The location of the architectural masterpiece is Kutuzovsky Avenue.
24. Stalin’s Heights
The seven high-rises built in the 20th century in the style of “Soviet monumental classicism” or the opulent “Stalinist Empire”. Designed by Stalin himself, the original high-rise buildings were to be symbols of the greatness and power of the capital and the Soviet Union. During the years of the Soviet Union only the largest and most important figures in science and politics could get apartments in such prestigious buildings. However, the cost of real estate in these elite houses and today is incredibly high, even by Moscow standards.
25. Old Arbat Street
It’s hard to imagine a Russian who wouldn’t know about the capital’s main pedestrian street. There are many souvenir stores, cafes and museums of various kinds. You can order your own portrait from a street artist or listen to performances of musicians, spend time looking at local architectural treasures.
26. State Department Store (GUM)
One of the main sights of Red Square. The majestic 19th century building will welcome you with its numerous shopping aisles. Today GUM has author’s showrooms, historical stores and expensive boutiques of the most famous brands on Earth. If your aim is high-class shopping, and you can afford really expensive purchases, a walk through the department store will bring you a lot of pleasure.
Official website: https://gum.ru/
27. Hermitage Garden
A massive park area that locals most often choose for walking. The date of the complex’s foundation is the 19th century. There is now a summer concert stage and several theaters. Recommended for a visit at any time of the year.
Official website: http://www.mosgorsad.ru
28. MUZEON Art Park
A vast area consisting of walking paths, contemporary art objects, landscaped areas, outdoor exhibitions. The park is set up on the colorful Crimean embankment.
Official website: http://park-gorkogo
29. Moscow Zoo
The capital’s “menagerie” was created in order to conduct educational and research activities, to preserve various animal species. At the moment, the number of inhabitants is about 1,100 species and about 8,000 representatives of fauna from all over the world. A visit will be equally interesting for children and adults.
Official website: http://www.moscowzoo.ru/
30. Art-cluster “Red October”
A center for Moscow’s bohemians, located in the brick house of a famed confectionery factory. The city’s most famous celebrities and fashionable crowd gather here. The center has many exhibition halls, design studios, art galleries and workshops.
Official website: http://www.redok.ru/
31. Gorky Park
The park area is located on the bank of the Moskva River. Recently the area has been one of the main places for entertainment of locals and guests of the megalopolis - in the cold season there is an ice rink, in summer large-scale celebrations, skateboarding competitions, performances of environmentalists, vegetarian festivals, other entertaining and sometimes unusual events are organized here.
Official website: http://park-gorkogo.com/
We hope that those sights of Moscow, photos with names and descriptions of which you have now seen, have aroused your interest. When you come to the capital, be sure to find time to visit them.
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Bold & Beautiful’ s Kimberlin Brown Out as Sheila: ‘It’s a Tough Place for Me to Be In’
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Aaand… “Cut!” In the February 26 episode of The Bold and the Beautiful , Steffy Forrester fatally stabbed monster-in-law Sheila Carter, thus bringing to an end Kimberlin Brown ’s latest return as the soap-hopping murderess.
“It’s a tough place for me to be in right now; I’m not going to lie about this,” the actress tells TV Insider . But “I guess if anyone were going to take Sheila down, I’m happy it’s Steffy.” In fairness, the ex-con was only at her nemesis’ house to leave her pushing up daisies.
Brown originated the infamous role on sister soap The Young and the Restless before the character’s many crimes — everything from man-stealing to baby-snatching — prompted her to fake her death and cross over to The Bold and the Beautiful . Following another reign of terror on that show — Sheila shot Brooke, Taylor and Stephanie and threatened to kill lil’ Thomas — she started bouncing between the two daytime dramas every few years.
Here and there, Sheila has supposedly met her maker. (Once, she was even said to have been devoured by a bear.) But the soaps have always found a way for her to do to death what she does to everyone else: cheat. In between stints on Young & Restless and Bold & Beautiful , Brown appeared on All My Children , General Hospital , Port Charles and One Life to Live.
Do you think Sheila is really, most sincerely dead this time? Or is the show just faking us out again? Hit the comments.
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Was time!! I even yelled out loud STEFFY DO IT AGAIN JUST TO MAKE SURE!!!!!
The characters don’t exist in real life. The body and the identity of the characters dont exist in real life. They dont have bodies or human identity or family or relationships connection with “movie families” or connection with family they have in the movie. They are all chukcy characters. They are blind deaf and can’t speak. They don’t have any human identity or relationship with their family. Their actions and their conversations exist just in the movie. Their actions or their relationshiops or their communications. Everyone of them are not real people are just imaginary beef. It’s just one its the killer who brings them alive inside his movie. The electricity and the internet you see in the movie are not real the earth doesn’t have electricity or cellular the internet. Internet and electricity is just the movie inside their head.
If this is the best AI can do, we humans are safe for now.
Why didn’t you just say so. 🤓
ok weirdo. Kimberlin Brown played her character so well, that hundreds hate her character forever. THAT’S good acting!
HOW RUDE!! It should have been big lip that died.
Yes! I agree with you!
Kimberlin Brown is one of the best actresses out there! Sheila can’t be dead! Finn will bring her back to life, but that most likely won’t happen. Bummer. Will really miss her.
Please Bring Sheila back as otherwise the show is s snorefest .
It could be sugar, and not actually Sheila that got stabbed… That way it gets Sheila off the show a little bit, and eventually Sheila will be found, and will find out that. It was really sugar that Steffi killed. This can’t be the end of Sheila, Kimberly, Brown, does an excellent job playing this role. We definitely hate to see her go, but pray she’s coming back!
Who is “Sugar”?
I totally forgot about Sugar. I think you might be on to something…hopefully the writers agree.
I hope Shiela is not dead. She brings life to this soap. Otherwise this show is pretty boring with everything else.
Sheila is overplayed and Bell doesn’t know who to write for her. He tried to turn her into a romantic heroine, complete with a love interest. Sheila is best in short term arcs otherwise her and any villain who remains long term becomes “Cartoonish”
The writing sucks. They had so much potential with the Sheila/Finn connection. Let alone that Sheila has other children out there. In this latest stint they focused too much on her ill-fated love affair with Deacon and that FBI set up with Bill that went nowhere.
It’s a shame for the character but again looking at the writing and storylines given to her, it‘s better Kimberlin Brown stays far, far away from that show.
Since they don’t seem to know what to do with Deacon either, my guess would be that Sean Kanan is next.
Plus they had to dumb everyone down or throw them under the bus for her, and that’s not what should happen. If a character can’t be written without throwing others under the bus/dumbing them down, then that character is worthless
If in fact Sheila is dead, I wish Lauren from Y&R would have been the one to take her down. She did SO much to poor Lauren for decades that it would have been nice to see her going out in a blaze with a room full of people (victims) that Sheila tortured. With that said, it’s time for her to go, because some of the ways they had her escape death were just too stupid to be believed. They can always bleach her hair down the road and bring her back as Sheila’s good twin sister (same soup warmed over from many times gone by). Now will Steffy go to jail for manslaughter and will she get back with Liam while Hope takes up with Finn? Ugh!
Why will Steffy go to jail? She came to her house where she wasn’t supposed to be. Turn lights off and tried to attack her. And with the history, I doubt it.
I DO hope Steffy goes to prison! Stabbing Sheila was unjustified!! Steffy is a vindictive b$&ch.
Lol stabbing Sheila was unjustified? REALLY??? I’ll assume you either missed the part where Sheila was outside in the bushes and said “Steffy, tonight you DIE!!!!!”, and then proceeded to unlawfully enter her house. Either that, or you didn’t comprehend that Sheila was actually there to kill Steffy. Either way, I hope when someone illegally enters your house in complete dark and approaches you that you keep that same energy toward yourself if you have to defend yourself. Tell the cops you deserve to go to jail because you had to kill someone who was trespassing in your house and coming at you. Darwinism at its best.
Well, Steffy had NO right to enter Sheila’s apartment to go and cause trouble!! And Steffy wanted Sheila to die and she killed Sheila!! All of Steffy’s fingerprints are on the murder weapon (knife).
Are you okay? Seriously, talk to someone.
How did Sheila unlock the sliding door? Steffy had locked the door.
I thought about that too so I re-watched that episode and she did lock it at first but she got scared of the noises and accidentally unlocked it later.
Frankie , Steffy is the best female character on B and B.
You either don’t know what Sheila did to Steffy and her husband Finn or you’re watching your own version of the show….
“Sheila most certainly deserved what Steffy did and it was self defense!”
It’s just too bad that Lauren Fenmore and Sheila’s other victims didn’t get to witness Sheila’s life ending.
Lauren or Phyllis should have taken her out. Steffy needs Taylor that’s why I don’t understand why she was fired.
Ugh is right. I do not like Liam back with Steffy.
She got to be dead this time. If so Steffy can say she was protecting herself, but she told people she want her dead. Well we will see how this play out. Stay tube.
Let’s hope that Sheila Carter is dead! Good riddance- good actress but enough of her being resurrected every time like she’s immortal
FINALLY! 3 long years overdue! She should have been short term to begin with, and kept getting away with too much crap.
After shooting Steffy and Finn she should have been done. Brad Bell needs to learn villains are best short term
I hope she will resurface on Y&R. *That’s* where she’s needed, not B&B. I’ve been eagerly awaiting a showdown between Sheila and Lauren since 2006! I also want them to retcon Pheila, Daisy, Ryder, and Sarah.
YR won’t acknowlege that she’s alive on BOLD(in LA). Nikki knows she is, but it’s never been acknowledged on YR that she does know
Nikki doesn’t know anything. And things change.
Is Nikki sober?
I don’t she seems to have more lives than a cat good luck in what ever you do Ms Brown you are a great actress 😊
Kimberlin Brown is the best actress in daytime TV and the writers wasted her talent with stupid, poorly written storylines! I’m done with this crappy show.
Sheila is too much a part of this soap! Without her it would lose the drama and intrigue her character brings to the show. I’m betting she is going to escape her demise yet, again. 😎
She was barely on for months doing nothing lol. And when she was on, they were trying to make her a romantic heroine by pairing her up with Deacon. Let’s face it, Sheila needs a good long rest
I need a rest from Sheila.
I may sound crazy for saying this but, if she’s gone, I’m going to miss her character. She played her part real well. Just like Mr Foster lived once more again, hopefully Sheila will too.
Who is Biglip? Who is Mr Foster? Do you mean Snapper Foster (played by Hasselhoff)?
I pray she is dead. Enough is enough!!!
I wish Sheila would have killed steffy. I love to hate Sheila. No love, just hate for steffy, always have always will
LMAO no one cares, this is about Sheila, but do go on
Steffy and Shiela don’t exist they are not real people they are dummies. They are kidnapped by 911 inside the home of 911 in electrocution. 911 is playing with their heads, have installed Playstation planet in their head. I hope they discover the home of the psycho killer which being kidnapped and doesn’t know their true identity
I love to hate the owner of the home where Shiela lives who hold kidnapped shiela and have invented her fake identity and playing with her mind cat and mouse video game with her mind without her knowledge that she doesn’t exist.
Steffy defended herself by ending Sheila’s violent, worthless life. May all of Sheila’s victims celebrate…. Happy dancing 💃!
Nope Sheila just can’t die she brings all the excitement to the show!!!
Say it ain’t so!!
I have loved watching the Sheila Monster since she returned to B&B a few years ago, and I will be sad if Kimberly is really leaving this show…With the understanding that these soap operas are fiction, I love rooting for some of the villains and villainesses because they make things exciting!! I want the writing to be over the top because this stuff is escapist fun for me, and the soapier the better…I also watch Y&R, and when they brought in Colleen to play crazy psycho Aunt Jordan, I went wild watching this new storyline!! Well I remember when Sheila “killed” Finn…So I hope somehow Sheila will cheat death again and return one day to cause more soapy drama for the Forresters, Logans, and Spencers…After all, she still has nine toes left…:)
Glad she is dead and gone. Could never stand her. Yea for Steffy.
They will bring Sheila back as her evil twin.
Bring her back as her evil daughter. Remember she did say she has other children.
Sheila needs to go enough is enough. Think bold & beautiful needs writer .Just like all soaps they die they don’t.
I hope she is”for real” dead! That story line was getting real old and tired,
Sugar is dead! Sheila is very much alive!
Hoping that character Sheila is gone! It lasted way too long! Hoping B&B can finally come to better storytelling!!! Was really ready to stop watching!!
Maybe Finn will whisk her off to hospital (private hospital) ha ha like Li did with Finn …bring her back to life …. And THIS is the last straw for Steffy —-driving her right into Liam’s arms …..freeing up Finn’s arms for Hope …after she leaves Thomas …. Igniting Thomas ‘RATH
Probably, but the only one that wants that storyline is Bell.
The B &B should hire Martha.
Yeah, it’s time for Sheila to go, Finn needs a reality check!
I’m thinking she is dead this time, but we will see her again as a different character. Deacon was saying that Shelia kept disappearing & stated she was reconnecting with someone from her past, a twin sister maybe? If that is the case, I feel the next character she plays if any will be the total opposite of her evil character, just my thoughts. Will Steffy go to jail, probably, but her families money & influence will get her out in no time. Long enough for her & Finn to break up & Hope will be right there for him as Liam will most definitely inject himself into Steffy’s world again Time will tell
Kimberlin Brown is a FABULOUS actress. Her role as Sheila Carter is one of the BEST villains ever! Been watching her since her 1st appearance on Y&R. I do believe she is dead this time. Unless Sheila’s spirit haunts Steffy so bad it causes her to go off the deep end and back to drug use. Aside from that…we will miss Sheila and the sheer lunacy she has brought to Bold and Y&R
Probably not dead, but I wouldn’t mind her being off the show.
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